Complete Sequencing of the blaNDM-1-Positive IncA/C Plasmid from Escherichia coli ST38 Isolate Suggests a Possible Origin from Plant Pathogens
2011

Origin of NDM-1-Positive Plasmid in E. coli

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Sekizuka Tsuyoshi, Matsui Mari, Yamane Kunikazu, Takeuchi Fumihiko, Ohnishi Makoto, Hishinuma Akira, Arakawa Yoshichika, Kuroda Makoto

Primary Institution: National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan

Hypothesis

The study investigates the origin of the blaNDM-1-positive IncA/C plasmid in Escherichia coli ST38.

Conclusion

The complete sequence of the plasmid suggests that the blaNDM-1 gene was acquired from plant pathogens via horizontal gene transfer.

Supporting Evidence

  • The plasmid pNDM-1_Dok01 was found to carry the blaNDM-1 gene.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated similarities between the plasmid and those from plant pathogens.
  • The study revealed that the blaNDM-1 gene was flanked by IS903 elements.

Takeaway

Scientists found a gene in E. coli that makes it resistant to antibiotics, and they think it came from bacteria that affect plants.

Methodology

The plasmid was sequenced using whole genome shotgun sequencing and analyzed for its genetic structure and similarities to other plasmids.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0025334

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