A newly identified IncY plasmid from multi-drug-resistant isolated from dairy cattle feces in Poland.

UNLABELLED

Comprehensive whole-genome sequencing was performed on two multi-drug-resistant strains isolated from cattle manure from a typical dairy farm in Poland in 2020. The identified strains are resistant to beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and fluoroquinolones. The complete sequences of the harbored plasmids revealed antibiotic-resistance genes located within many mobile genetic elements (e.g., insertional sequences or transposons) and genes facilitating conjugal transfer or promoting horizontal gene transfer. These plasmids are hitherto undescribed. Similar plasmids have been identified, but not in Poland. The identified plasmids carried resistance genes, including the tetracycline resistance gene ), aph family aminoglycoside resistance genes ″) and , beta-lactam resistance genes and , sulfonamide resistance gene , fluoroquinolone resistance gene , and the trimethoprim resistance gene . The characterized resistance plasmids were categorized into the IncY incompatibility group, indicating a high possibility for dissemination among the . While similar plasmids (99% identity) have been found in environmental and clinical samples, none have been identified in farm animals. These findings are significant within the One Health framework, as they underline the potential for antimicrobial-resistant from livestock and food sources to be transmitted to humans and . It highlights the need for careful monitoring and strategies to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance in the One Health approach.

IMPORTANCE

This study reveals the identification of new strains of antibiotic-resistant in cattle manure from a dairy farm in Poland, offering critical insights into the spread of drug resistance. Through whole-genome sequencing, researchers discovered novel plasmids within these bacteria, which carry genes resistant to multiple antibiotics. These findings are particularly alarming, as these plasmids can transfer between different bacterial species, potentially escalating the spread of antibiotic resistance. This research underscores the vital connection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment, emphasizing the concept of One Health. It points to the critical need for global vigilance and strategies to curb the proliferation of antibiotic resistance. By showcasing the presence of these strains and their advanced resistance mechanisms, the study calls for enhanced surveillance and preventive actions in both agricultural practices and healthcare settings to address the imminent challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.