Current Perspectives on Mycobacterium avium Complex: Taxonomy, Epidemiology, Resistance and Genomics

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are increasingly significant opportunistic pathogens.
• The Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is the leading cause of human NTM infections, including pulmonary and disseminated diseases.
• Infections occur in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on MAC taxonomy, clinical aspects, antimicrobial resistance, and ecology.
• To emphasize the role of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in MAC research and surveillance.
• To advocate for integrated genomic frameworks for global MAC infection management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on MAC taxonomy, clinical manifestations, antimicrobial resistance, and ecological distribution.
• Emphasis on the application of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for high-resolution typing and phylogenetic analysis.
• Discussion of genomic surveillance strategies for MAC infections.

Main Results:

• Accurate species-level identification of MAC remains challenging due to genetic diversity and database limitations.
• Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) offers high-resolution typing for improved phylogenetic analysis and outbreak investigation.
• Genomic data is essential for understanding MAC transmission, resistance, and epidemiology.

Conclusions:

• Genomic surveillance is vital for effective management of MAC infections.
• Integrated genomic frameworks are needed for early detection, accurate classification, and public health surveillance of MAC.
• A One Health approach is recommended for global MAC infection control.