In silico genomic insights into bacteriophages infecting ESBL-producing Escherichia coli from human, animal, and environmental sources.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli, particularly extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli (ESBL-EC), is a global public health concern. Bacteriophages (phages) play a significant role in bacterial evolution and the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). This study investigates prophages integrated within ESBL-EC genomes to assess their diversity, gene content, and potential contributions to ESBL-EC persistence across human, animal, and environmental reservoirs. Between May and December 2020, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Abuja and Lagos, collecting 448 stool, cecal, and environmental samples from abattoir workers, slaughtered cattle, and the abattoir environment. ESBL-EC genomes from these samples, obtained in

SUBMITTER: Aworh MK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11978167 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature