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Dissemination of resistance plasmids among gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria from hospital patients
Abstract:
Out of 184 patients who were infected or colonised with gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria, 17 (9%) harboured more than one strain. Single antibiotic-resistance plasmids were common to more than one of the different organisms isolated from nine patients, strongly suggestive of in-vivo conjugation. An "epidemic" plasmid with a molecular weight of approximately 110 megadaltons was found in 11 distinct strains isolated from four patients. Seven of the organisms harbouring this plasmid were Klebsiella aerogenes. Spread of multiple-resistance plasmids among endemic gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria is not uncommon, and these organisms provide a reservoir of plasmids that may ultimately spread to more pathogenic genera.
Insights
Gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria can carry multiple antibiotic-resistance plasmids, suggesting in-vivo conjugation. These findings highlight the potential for plasmid spread to more dangerous bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria pose a significant public health threat.
- Understanding the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance spread is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of antibiotic resistance plasmids in gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria.
- To assess the potential for in-vivo plasmid transfer among these organisms.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of bacterial isolates from 184 patients for multiple antibiotic-resistant strains.
- Plasmid profiling and molecular weight determination.
- Identification of specific plasmid types, including an "epidemic" plasmid.
Main Results:
- 17% of patients harbored more than one strain of gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria.
- In-vivo conjugation was suggested by the presence of single antibiotic-resistance plasmids in multiple organisms from nine patients.
- An "epidemic" plasmid (approx. 110 Mdal) was identified in 11 strains from four patients, notably in Klebsiella aerogenes.
Conclusions:
- Multiple antibiotic-resistance plasmids are common in gentamicin-resistant enterobacteria.
- These bacteria act as a reservoir for plasmids that can transfer between organisms.
- The findings underscore the risk of plasmid spread to more pathogenic bacterial genera, necessitating ongoing surveillance and control measures.