From the Research
The mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes, from mcr-1 to mcr-10, are a growing concern in the medical field due to their potential to spread and confer resistance to colistin, a last-line antibiotic. The mcr genes have been identified in various bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae species, and have been found to be plasmid-mediated, allowing for horizontal transfer and potential global dissemination 1. The most recent study on the topic, published in 2022, found that mcr-10.1 was present in three species of Klebsiella and was susceptible to colistin, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and study of these genes 2. Key points to consider include:
- The mcr genes confer resistance to colistin, a critical antibiotic for treating multi-drug resistant infections
- The genes are plasmid-mediated and can be transferred horizontally, allowing for rapid spread
- MCR-10, in particular, has been found to have a high degree of nucleotide identity with MCR-9 and encodes a protein with 82.93% amino acid identity to MCR-9 3
- The emergence of mcr-10.1 in three species of Klebsiella highlights the need for continued surveillance and study of these genes 2 It is essential to prioritize the monitoring and study of mcr genes to better understand their spread and to develop effective strategies for mitigating their impact on public health. The discovery of novel mcr genes, such as mcr-10, emphasizes the need for ongoing research and surveillance to stay ahead of the evolving landscape of antibiotic resistance. By understanding the mechanisms of mcr gene spread and the factors contributing to their emergence, healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions to reduce the risk of transmission and protect patient health. Ultimately, a comprehensive approach to addressing the mcr genes, including continued research, surveillance, and infection control measures, is necessary to mitigate their impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.