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Tn292l, a transposon encoding fosfomycin resistance
Abstract:
The determinant of resistance to fosfomycin of the Serratia marcescens plasmid pOU900 was transposed into the plasmid ColE1 and into the plasmid RP4 in the absence of the RecA function of the host. In each case, the acquisition of fosfomycin resistance was correlated with the presence of a discrete piece of DNA, uniform in size and in restriction pattern, This new, 7.5-megadalton transposable element encoding resistance to fosfomycin has been called Tn2921. A preliminary map of the transposon is presented.
Insights
Researchers identified a new transposable element, Tn2921, responsible for fosfomycin resistance in Serratia marcescens. This element was successfully transferred to other plasmids, demonstrating its function in conferring antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern.
- Fosfomycin is an important antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
- Understanding the genetic basis of fosfomycin resistance is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the genetic element responsible for fosfomycin resistance in Serratia marcescens plasmid pOU900.
- To investigate the transferability and function of this resistance determinant in different plasmid contexts.
Main Methods:
- Transposition of the fosfomycin resistance determinant from pOU900 into ColE1 and RP4 plasmids.
- Transformation of host bacteria lacking RecA function.
- Analysis of DNA fragments, size, and restriction patterns to confirm the presence of the transposable element.
Main Results:
- A novel 7.5-megadalton transposable element, named Tn2921, was identified.
- Tn2921 conferred fosfomycin resistance upon its successful transposition into ColE1 and RP4 plasmids.
- The acquisition of resistance correlated with the presence of a distinct, uniformly sized DNA fragment with a consistent restriction pattern.
Conclusions:
- Tn2921 is a distinct transposable element encoding fosfomycin resistance.
- This element can be mobilized and confer resistance in different plasmid systems.
- A preliminary map of Tn2921 was generated, paving the way for further structural and functional studies.