Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Legionella from Artificial Water Systems
Author Information
Author(s): Pereira Bernardo Beirão, Marrafa Mário, Cruz Carolina, Rodrigues Lúcia, Nunes Filipa, Monteiro Silvia, Santos Ricardo, Carneiro Rui Neves, Neto Célia, Aguilar Joana, Ferreiro Nuno Rafael, Passanha Margarida, Candeias Gonçalo, Fernandes Aida, Paixão Paulo, Chasqueira Maria Jesus
Primary Institution: Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Hypothesis
The study aimed to assess the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes in Legionella populations in artificial water systems.
Conclusion
The lpeAB gene is predominant in L. pneumophila sg1, and monitoring antimicrobial resistance genes in Legionella is essential for public health.
Supporting Evidence
- The lpeAB gene was found in 19% of samples, with higher rates in L. pneumophila and L. pneumophila sg1.
- A positive association between lpeAB and L. pneumophila sg1 was found.
- The MIC values of lpeAB-positive isolates ranged from 0.064 to 2 mg/L.
- LpeAB inhibition resulted in 2- and 4-fold MIC reductions in some isolates.
- Two positive samples for the tet56 gene were identified in L. longbeacheae and L. bozemanae.
Takeaway
This study looked at bacteria in water that can make people sick and found some of them are getting better at resisting medicine.
Methodology
The study used conventional PCR to detect ARGs in 348 environmental samples collected over two years.
Potential Biases
The limited number of publications on lpeAB distribution in Legionella non-pneumophila may lead to sample bias.
Limitations
The study's sample population was unevenly distributed across geographical regions, which may affect data interpretation.
Participant Demographics
Samples were collected from various regions in Portugal, primarily from building network waters.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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