Genomic characterization of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing and carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli from urban wastewater in Australia

Abstract

This study investigates extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing and carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli isolates from Sydney's wastewater. These isolates exhibit resistance to critical antibiotics and harbor novel resistance mechanisms. The findings highlight the importance of wastewater-based surveillance in monitoring resistance beyond the clinical setting.

Keywords: Escherichia coli; emerging strain; novel resistance mechanism; wastewater-based surveillance; whole-genome sequencing.