ESβL E. coli isolated in pig's chain: Genetic analysis associated to the phenotype and biofilm synthesis evaluation

Abstract

Resistance to new generation cephalosporins is an important public health problem globally, in terms of economic and social costs, morbidity and mortality. Βeta-lactamase enzymes are mainly responsible for the antibiotic resistance of Gram negative bacteria and extended-spectrum-β-lactamases (ESβLs) are one of the major determinants of resistance against oxymino-cephalosporins in Enterobacteriaceae. Food-producing animals represent one of the sources of antibiotic resistant bacteria, including pigs. Here we analysed the presence of E. coli resistant to III generation cephalosporins isolated from different matrices collected from intensively bred pigs. A total of 498 E. coli were isolated from faeces and carcasses of pigs at slaughterhouse as well as from pork meat and sausages. Among these, 73 were phenotypically confirmed to be ESβL producers. Genetic analysis revealed that all except two harboured at least one of the three selected genes: bla_CTX-M, bla_TEM, and bla_SHV. Furthermore, six of the E. coli ESβL isolated from faeces and carcasses swabs, were also able to produce biofilm, highlighting the virulence potential of these strains. The presence of Multi-Drug-Resistance patterns (MDR) recorded by the 73 ESβL E. coli was significant (60% of the strains were resistant to more than six antibiotics in MIC test). Results from the present study show that the transmission of resistant bacteria is possible along the food chain, including production of pork, one the most highly consumed meats around the world. Transmission is possible through the ingestion of raw meat products, and following cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods during preparation. The potential risk for human health demonstrated here, associated with the consumption of pork contaminated with bacterial strains characterized by multidrug resistance patterns, and the ability to produce ESβL and biofilm, is cause for concern. It is imperative to study future control strategies to avoid or limit as much as possible the transmission of these highly pathogenic strains through food consumption and/or contact with the environment.

Keywords: Antibiotic resistance; Biofilm; E. coli; ESβL; Pigs; Pork meat.