Genetic relatedness of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli isolated from humans, chickens and poultry environments

• DOI: 10.1186/s13756-021-00930-x
• Publication Date: 2021-03-23T20:03:05Z
• Authors: Mabel Kamweli Aworh; Jacob K. P. Kwaga; Rene S. Hendriksen; Emmanuel C. Okolocha; Siddhartha Thakur
• Keywords: Multilocus sequence typing; Poultry farming

Abstract Background Inappropriate use of antimicrobial agents in animal production has led to the development resistance (AMR) foodborne pathogens. Transmission AMR pathogens from reservoirs, particularly chickens human population does occur. Recently, we reported that occupational exposure was a risk factor for multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli (E. coli) among poultry-workers. Here determined prevalence and genetic relatedness MDR E. isolated poultry-workers, chickens, poultry environments Abuja, Nigeria. This study conducted address gaps identified by Nigerian situation analysis. Methods We cross-sectional farm/live bird market (LBM) environments. The isolates were tested phenotypically their susceptibility profiles, genotypically characterized using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) silico multilocus sequence types (MLST). phylogenetic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) analysis determine clonality isolates. Results A total 115 (26.8%) out 429 samples positive coli. Of these, 110 viable phenotypic genotypic characterization. selection comprised 47 (42.7%) 36 (32.7%) 27 (24.5%) poultry-farm or LBM Overall, 101 (91.8%) conferring at least three drug classes . High frequency observed tetracycline (n = 102; 92.7%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 93; 84.5%), streptomycin 87; 79.1%) ampicillin 88; 80%). Two plasmid-mediated colistin genes— mcr-1.1 harboured on IncX4 plasmids detected environmental most prevalent (ST) ST-155 8), ST-48 8) ST-10 6). sources with SNPs difference 6161 originating same farm shared novel ST. had similar genes plasmid replicons. Conclusion E.coli amongst poultry, farm/LBM environment. emergence ST two may be plasmid-mediated. Competent authorities should enforce regulations ensure prudent antimicrobials limit transmission along food chain.