Related Experiment Videos
Mupirocin resistance in coagulase-negative staphylococci
S Connolly1, W C Noble, I Phillips
1Division of Dermatology, United Medical Dental School, London.
Journal of Medical Microbiology
|December 1, 1993
Summary
High-level mupirocin resistance in coagulase-negative staphylococci from dialysis patients was linked to plasmids. These resistance genes were transferable and detected using a Staphylococcus aureus probe.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Clinical Science
Background:
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are significant pathogens in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
- High-level mupirocin resistance in CoNS poses a treatment challenge, potentially leading to treatment failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic basis of high-level mupirocin resistance in CoNS from peritoneal dialysis patients.
- To characterize the plasmids carrying mupirocin resistance determinants and their transferability.
Main Methods:
- Transfer of resistance determinants (plasmids) to Staphylococcus aureus recipient strains.
- Plasmid DNA cleavage using restriction endonucleases.
- Hybridization assays using a specific probe derived from a known mupirocin resistance plasmid.
Main Results:
- Mupirocin resistance determinants were found on various plasmids within CoNS isolates.
- Plasmid profiles and restriction fragment length polymorphisms indicated diversity in resistance-carrying plasmids.
- Resistance determinants were successfully transferred to S. aureus and hybridized with the probe at approximately 4 kb.
Conclusions:
- High-level mupirocin resistance in CoNS from peritoneal dialysis patients is often plasmid-mediated.
- The characterized plasmids exhibit variability but carry transferable resistance determinants.
- Understanding the genetic mechanisms of resistance is crucial for effective treatment strategies in peritoneal dialysis patients.