Resistome Signature and Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms in Rhizospheric Soil Bacteriomes of Mecca Region, Saudi Arabia: Insights into Impact on Human Health.

The objective of this investigation is to ascertain the distinctive profile of the rhizospheric soil resistome within the Mecca region, while also evaluating the potential risks associated with the horizontal transfer of resistome determinants to the open environment and human clinical isolates. We have made metagenomic whole-genome shotgun sequencing for rhizospheric microbiomes of two endemic plants, namely and . The rhizospheric resistomes of the two plants and the abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were identified by cross-referencing encoded proteins with the comprehensive antibiotic resistance database (CARD). The identified ARGs were then analyzed for their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) mechanisms. Predominantly within this soil are the two bacterial species and . These opportunistic human pathogens are implicated in respiratory infections and are correlated with heightened mortality rates. The most prevalent array of ARGs existing in this soil comprises , , , and , associated with mechanisms of antibiotic active efflux, along with (2), (3), (6), and (6), in addition to , , , , , and , implicated in antibiotic inactivation. Furthermore, , , and are identified for antibiotic target alteration, while and are noted for antibiotic target replacement and protection, respectively. These mechanisms confer resistance against a diverse spectrum of drug classes encompassing fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, glycopeptides, and rifampicins. This study underscores the potential hazards posed to human health by the presence of these pathogenic bacteria within the rhizospheric soil of the Mecca region, particularly in scenarios where novel ARGs prevalent in human populations are harbored and subsequently transmitted through the food chain to human clinical isolates. Consequently, stringent adherence to good agricultural and food transportation practices is imperative, particularly with regard to edible plant parts and those utilized in folkloric medicine.