Population genomics and antimicrobial resistance in Corynebacterium diphtheriae
Overview
Paper Summary
This study found widespread acquired resistance to penicillin among C. diphtheriae isolates and identified a novel penicillin-binding protein gene (pbp2m) associated with resistance. This gene is located on a large multidrug resistance plasmid and its expression in C. glutamicum demonstrated its effect against several beta-lactams, potentially impacting treatment strategies for diphtheria.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found that the germs causing diphtheria are getting really good at fighting off important medicines like penicillin. They discovered a new "shield" gene that helps these germs resist the medicine, which might make diphtheria harder to treat in the future.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This research provides a valuable overview of antimicrobial resistance, particularly penicillin, in C. diphtheriae. It identifies a novel penicillin-binding protein associated with resistance and describes its genomic context on a plasmid carrying other resistance genes, providing important information for understanding the evolution of resistance. While the study acknowledges limitations and uses tentative ecological cut-offs, it offers a comprehensive analysis of the genetic and phylogenetic dynamics of resistance in C. diphtheriae, enhancing our understanding of this re-emerging pathogen.
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