[Appearance of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics

Context:

• Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) are enzymes produced by bacteria that hydrolyze a wide range of beta-lactam antibiotics.
• These enzymes confer resistance to critical antibiotics like cephalosporins, carbapenems, and monobactams.
• ESBLs are increasingly identified across various molecular classes (A, B, C, D) of beta-lactamases.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs).
• To detail the enzymatic mechanisms and resistance conferred by ESBLs.
• To highlight the genetic basis and dissemination of ESBL-producing bacteria.

Summary:

• ESBLs hydrolyze broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics, including oxyimino-cephalosporins and carbapenems.
• These enzymes originate from diverse beta-lactamase classes and can arise from mutations in existing genes.
• ESBL genes are often plasmid-mediated, facilitating rapid spread among pathogenic bacteria.

Impact:

• ESBL-producing bacteria pose a significant threat, leading to challenging hospital-acquired infections.
• Understanding ESBLs is vital for developing effective antimicrobial strategies and infection control measures.
• The study underscores the importance of monitoring and managing the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes.