A recent study has shed light on the increasing incidence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in healthcare settings in Egypt, particularly concerning the rise of antimicrobial resistance. The study, conducted by a team of researchers led by Salma Salem, delved into the genomic makeup of thirteen P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from Egyptian healthcare facilities.

The research involved analyzing the antimicrobial resistance profiles and biofilm formation of the isolates using minimum inhibitory concentration and microtiter plate assays. Whole genome sequencing was then utilized to identify sequence typing, resistome, virulome, and mobile genetic elements present in the isolates.

The findings revealed that a staggering 92.3% of the isolates were classified as extensively drug-resistant, with over half of them demonstrating robust biofilm production capabilities. The study identified ST773 as the predominant clone, followed by ST235, both associated with the O11 serotype. Comparison with global isolates suggested the potential global spread and adaptation of these clones.

Furthermore, a significant number of the isolates harbored Col plasmids and various mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying antimicrobial resistance genes. The researchers also pinpointed single nucleotide polymorphisms in different genes linked to the development of antimicrobial resistance.

In conclusion, the study underscores the prevalence of extensively drug-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates in Egyptian healthcare settings and highlights the role of horizontal gene transfer facilitated by diverse MGEs within different clones. The research also identified specific insertion sequences and mutations associated with antibiotic resistance, shedding light on the mechanisms driving the evolution of antimicrobial resistance in P. aeruginosa.