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Posted: 23rd April 2024

Scientists find antibiotic resistant genes in pets
The bacteria is able to acquire multiple drug resistance.
The combinations have zoonotic capabilities which could affect humans.

Experts have identified two new gene combinations in a common bacteria, which relate to antibiotic resistance in cats and dogs.

The newly discovered gene combinations relate to a genetic element, which contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance in staphylococcal bacteria.

The team, from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, studied the bacteria Staphylococcus pseudintermedius – a pathogen which causes a range of infections. The bacteria particularly affects animals’ skin.

It is able to acquire multiple drug resistance, and has zoonotic capabilities which makes it a challenge in both veterinary and human medicine.

The research saw scientists perform genome sequencing on clinical samples collected from the infected wounds of small animals.

This revealed two newly discovered gene combinations within the mobile genetic element SCCmec, which is responsible for antibiotic resistance.

The discovery will enable the team to gain a better understanding of how the bacteria is evolving resistance mechanisms. This will be vital as scientists seek strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.

However, the team believes that the potential zoonotic capabilities of the bacteria highlights the importance of adopting a One Health approach.

Future work will also focus on monitoring antibiotic resistance in veterinary and human medicine. The researchers will be expanding their surveillance efforts, by using genome sequencing to monitor the antibiotic resistance of veterinary pathogens.

Dr Gavin Paterson, a senior lecturer in molecular and applied microbiology, said: “Understanding the diversity and characteristics of SCCmec elements is crucial for tracking antibiotic resistance patterns and developing strategies to combat infections caused by resistant bacteria.

“The findings of this study underscore the dynamic nature of antibiotic resistance and the need for continued vigilance in combating multidrug-resistant infections in both animals and humans”

The full study can be found in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy.

Image © Shutterstock



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