Mobile Genetic Elements Encoding Antibiotic Resistance Genes and Virulence Genes in : Important Pathways for the Acquisition of Virulence and Resistance

Overview

Journal Front Microbiol

Specialty Microbiology

Date 2025 Mar 11

PMID 40066273

Authors

Bin Han

Chunlin Feng

Yuan Jiang

Caihong Ye

Yueshuai Wei

Jinbo Liu

Zhangrui Zeng

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

is an opportunistic pathogen primarily associated with nosocomial infections, characterized by a propensity for multi-drug resistance and the potential evolution into hypervirulent strains. Based on its phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, can be classified into two types: classical (cKP) and hypervirulent (hvKP). The spread of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in has led to the emergence of carbapenem-resistant (CRKP) and carbapenem-resistant hypervirulent (CR-hvKP). The emergence of CR-hvKP is particularly concerning due to its multidrug resistance, high pathogenicity, and increased transmissibility. This review summarizes the types of MGEs present in , the mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) mediated by these mobile elements, their roles in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence genes, and the relationships among MGEs that resemble Russian dolls or exhibit hybrid characteristics. Additionally, the clinical treatment and epidemiological characteristics of CR-hvKP are discussed. Given the high variability and transmissibility of MGEs, continuous monitoring and control of the variation and transmission of such genetic material in should be prioritized.

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