Evaluation of the Frequency of mcr-۱ Gene in Clinical Isolates of Escherichia coli in a Zanjan Educational Hospital (Valiasr)

Background and Aim : Responsible for most of the gram negative blood and urinary tract infections in humans, Escherichia coli is one of the most debated microorganisms in the world. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of the colistin resistance gene mcr-۱ and the associated susceptibility profiles in E. coli isolates obtained from patients in an Iranian educational hospital.Methods : In this cross-sectional study, a total number of ۱۰۰ PCR-confirmed E. coli isolates were collected at an educational hospital in Zanjan, Iran in June ۲۰۲۱. Disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility disk diffusion was used to determine in the isolates. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were evaluated in the colistin resistant isolates and PCR was used to assess the presence of mcr-۱ gene in them. Data analysis was performed using SPSS ۲۶.Results : Multidrug resistance (MDR) and ESBL production were observed in ۷۲ and ۵۶ isolates, respectively. Colistin resistance was observed in ۷۰ isolates. The mcr-۱ gene was detected in ۳۰ (۴۱%) MDR E. coli isolates. Resistance to other classes of antibiotics was less in these isolates, with the majority of them being susceptible to carbapenems.Conclusion : The results indicate that colistin resistance is alarmingly rising among E. coli clinical isolates, including resistance mediated by the mcr-۱ gene in Zanjan, Iran and controlling measures should be taken regarding this.

Keywords:

Escherichia coli , Colistin. mcr-۱