Work

Tracking intra-species and inter-genus transmission of KPC through global plasmids mining

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) poses a major public health risk. Understanding its transmission dynamics requires examining the epidemiological features of related plasmids. Our study compiled 15,660 bla KPC -positive isolates globally over the past two decades. We found extensive diversity in the genetic background of KPC, with 23 Tn 4401 -related and 341 non-Tn 4401 variants across 163 plasmid types in 14 genera. Intra- K. pneumoniae and cross-genus KPC transmission patterns varied across four distinct periods. In the initial periods, plasmids with narrow host ranges gradually established a survival advantage. In later periods, broad-host-range plasmids became crucial for cross-genera transmission. In total, 61 intra- K. pneumoniae and 66 cross-genus transmission units have been detected. Furthermore, phylogenetic reconstruction dated the origin of KPC transmission back to 1991 and revealed frequent exchanges across countries. Our research highlights the frequent and transient spread events of KPC mediated by plasmids across multiple genera and offers theoretical support for high-risk plasmid monitoring.

Source: Cell Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114351

Authors: Meng Cai, Kaiwen Song, Ruobing Wang, Shuyi Wang, Hongbin Chen, Hui Wang

Institutions: Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University

Language: English

Topic: Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

Subfield: Molecular Medicine

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $5,460