New insights highlight integrons as key players in the dissemination of beta-lactamase (BL) genes, driving resistance to carbapenems and other beta-lactams. A review of 1981 integrons from clinical and environmental settings shows their role in capturing and spreading BL genes across multiple bacterial genera, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the most frequent host.Given their association with other mobile genetic elements and their ability to carry multiple resistance genes, integrons play a crucial role in antimicrobial resistance dynamics. Their presence should be a key factor in surveillance and epidemiological studies to track the spread of beta-lactam resistance.
Read the full study: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107421
#AntimicrobialResistance #BetaLactamases #Integrons #Microbiology #InfectiousDiseases #Surveillance
