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ENTEROBACTER BUGANDENSIS

13th June, 2024

Source: DownToEarth

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

  • A collaborative study by scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has unveiled significant findings regarding a multi-drug-resistant pathogen, Enterobacter bugandensis, aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
  • This bacterium, notorious for causing hospital-acquired infections, poses a significant challenge both in space and on Earth.

Details

Key Findings

  • Pathogen Characteristics:
    • Enterobacter bugandensisis part of the ESKAPE group of pathogens, known for their resistance to multiple drugs and their prevalence in hospital-acquired infections.
    • These pathogens are particularly resistant to third-generation cephalosporins and quinolones.
  • Unique Environment of ISS:
    • The ISS provides a unique setting with microgravity, heightened carbon dioxide levels, and increased radiation, which affect microbial dynamics.
    • Researchers isolated 13 strains of  bugandensisfrom various surfaces within the ISS, noting that these strains underwent accelerated mutations, making them genetically and functionally distinct from their Earth counterparts.
  • Genomic and Functional Adaptations:
    • Stress-induced genomic adaptations in the ISS strains bolster their resistance to antimicrobial treatments.
    • The ISS strains displayed remarkable persistence and coexisted with other microorganisms, sometimes even aiding in their survival.

Enterobacter bugandensis

  • Enterobacter bugandensisis a multi-drug-resistant bacterium known for causing hospital-acquired infections.
  • It belongs to the ESKAPE group of pathogens, which are notorious for their ability to evade antibiotic treatments and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality in healthcare settings.

Classification and Characteristics

  • Taxonomy:
    • Kingdom: Bacteria
    • Phylum: Proteobacteria
    • Class: Gammaproteobacteria
  • Morphology:
    • Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium.
    • Facultative anaerobe capable of thriving in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Pathogenicity and Clinical Relevance

  • Infections:
    • Known to cause a variety of infections, particularly in healthcare settings, including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, wound infections, and sepsis.
    • Particularly problematic in immunocompromised patients and those with invasive devices such as catheters and ventilators.
  • Antibiotic Resistance:
    • Exhibits broad resistance to multiple antibiotics, including third-generation cephalosporins and quinolones.
    • Part of the ESKAPE group, which includes other high-priority pathogens like Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Must read articles:

ISS

Sources:

DownToEarth

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.  Discuss the global implications of multi-drug-resistant pathogens, with a focus on challenges in treatment, prevention strategies, and the role of international cooperation in addressing this critical health issue. (250 Words)