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RPL11, an R factor of Pseudomonas aeruginosa determining carbenicillin and gentamicin resistance
Abstract:
R factor RPL11 from Pseudomonas aeruginosa determines multiple drug resistance including resistance to gentamicin and carbenicillin. The host range and incompatibility properties of RPL11 are those of incompatibility group P-2. Strains harboring the factor are not altered with respect to the major immunotypes 1 through 7 of Parke-Davis, or with respect to pyocin type by using the 18 indicators of Jones and co-workers. Analytical ultracentrifugation of crude extracts of R factor-containing strains shows a band of satellite DNA with a buoyant density of 1.717 g/cm(3).
Insights
The Pseudomonas aeruginosa R factor RPL11 confers resistance to multiple antibiotics like gentamicin and carbenicillin. This R factor belongs to incompatibility group P-2 and does not alter key bacterial characteristics.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen known for its intrinsic and acquired antibiotic resistance.
- R factors (resistance factors) are plasmids that carry genes conferring resistance to antibiotics.
- Understanding the mechanisms and characteristics of R factors is crucial for combating antimicrobial resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the R factor RPL11 from Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- To determine the antibiotic resistance profile conferred by RPL11.
- To investigate the genetic and phenotypic properties of strains harboring RPL11.
Main Methods:
- Plasmid analysis using analytical ultracentrifugation.
- Determination of host range and incompatibility properties.
- Assessment of major immunotypes and pyocin typing.
Main Results:
- R factor RPL11 confers resistance to multiple drugs, including gentamicin and carbenicillin.
- RPL11 exhibits host range and incompatibility properties of incompatibility group P-2.
- Strains carrying RPL11 showed no alterations in major immunotypes or pyocin type.
- Analytical ultracentrifugation revealed a satellite DNA band with a buoyant density of 1.717 g/cm(3) in R factor-containing strains.
Conclusions:
- R factor RPL11 is a significant determinant of multidrug resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- RPL11 belongs to the P-2 incompatibility group, suggesting specific plasmid replication and maintenance mechanisms.
- The study provides a molecular characterization of RPL11, contributing to the understanding of antibiotic resistance in P. aeruginosa.