Whole-Genome Sequencing of Resistance, Virulence and Regulation Genes in Extremely Resistant Strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Background/objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a clinically significant opportunistic pathogen, renowned for its ability to acquire and develop diverse mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. This study examines the resistance, virulence, and regulatory mechanisms in extensively drug-resistant clinical strains of P. aeruginosa.

Methods: Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) method, and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on the Illumina NovaSeq platform.

Results: The analysis demonstrated a higher prevalence of virulence genes compared to resistance and regulatory genes. Key virulence factors identified included secretion systems, motility, adhesion, and biofilm formation. Resistance mechanisms observed comprised efflux pumps and beta-lactamases, while regulatory systems involved two-component systems, transcriptional regulators, and sigma factors. Additionally, phenotypic profiles were found to correlate with resistance genes identified through genotypic analysis.

Conclusions: This study underscores the significant resistance and virulence of the clinical P. aeruginosa strains analyzed, highlighting the urgent need for alternative strategies to address infections caused by extensively drug-resistant bacteria.