Two classes of DNA gyrase inhibitors elicit distinct evolutionary trajectories toward resistance in gram-negative pathogens
2024

Resistance Mechanisms to DNA Gyrase Inhibitors in Bacteria

Sample size: 42 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Semen A. Leyn, James E. Kent, Jaime E. Zlamal, Marinela L. Elane, Maarten Vercruysse, Andrei L. Osterman

Primary Institution: Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute

Hypothesis

What are the evolutionary dynamics of resistance acquisition against DNA gyrase/topoisomerase inhibitors in gram-negative pathogens?

Conclusion

The study found that resistance to the TriBE inhibitor GP6 in E. coli and A. baumannii is primarily driven by mutations in the GyrB ATP-binding site and efflux pump upregulation.

Supporting Evidence

  • Resistance to GP6 was driven by mutations in the GyrB ATP-binding site.
  • Efflux pump upregulation was a significant factor in resistance development.
  • Distinct evolutionary trajectories were observed for GP6 compared to ciprofloxacin.
  • Most GP6-resistant isolates showed cross-resistance to ciprofloxacin.
  • Experimental evolution was conducted using a morbidostat to simulate continuous drug pressure.
  • Whole genome sequencing provided insights into the mutational landscape of resistance.
  • Different mutational events were identified in E. coli and A. baumannii.
  • Findings suggest that GP6 may be effective against ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria.

Takeaway

Bacteria can become resistant to new antibiotics by changing their DNA or by pumping the drugs out, and this study looked at how that happens with a specific antibiotic.

Methodology

The study used a morbidostat for continuous culturing and whole genome sequencing to analyze evolving bacterial populations.

Limitations

The study's findings may not fully represent in vivo conditions as it was conducted in vitro.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/s44259-024-00021-y

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