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[Resistance to imipenem in Enterobacter aerogenes]
1Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma, Barcelona.
Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiologia Clinica
|May 1, 1995
Summary
A resistant Enterobacter aerogenes strain showed imipenem resistance due to hyperproduction of a chromosomic beta-lactamase and reduced outer membrane protein expression. This finding is critical for understanding antimicrobial resistance mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
Context:
- An Enterobacter aerogenes strain exhibiting resistance to all beta-lactams, including imipenem, was isolated in 1993.
- Imipenem resistance in Enterobacter species is uncommon, necessitating investigation into the underlying resistance mechanisms.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the resistance mechanism of the imipenem-resistant Enterobacter aerogenes strain 174004/H.
- To characterize the beta-lactamase enzyme and analyze outer membrane protein expression.
Summary:
- Isoelectrofocusing and kinetic analysis identified a chromosomic beta-lactamase with a pI > 9.2.
- Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a decrease in a 42 kDa outer membrane protein, likely a porin.
- Imipenem resistance is attributed to hyperproduction of this beta-lactamase and reduced porin expression.
Impact:
- Provides insight into the molecular basis of carbapenem resistance in Enterobacter aerogenes.
- Contributes to understanding the evolution and spread of antimicrobial resistance.
- Informs strategies for combating infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.