A One Health study of <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> species complex plasmids shows a highly diverse and ecologically adaptable plasmidome.

ABSTRACT: Plasmids play a pivotal role in the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence determinants among bacteria. Members of the Klebsiella pneumoniae species complex (KpSC) can colonize humans, animals and various environments and frequently cause nosocomial and community-acquired infections in humans. While plasmid-borne AMR genes are prevalent in clinical strains, the diversity, distribution and association of plasmids encoding AMR and virulence across ecological niches remain poorly characterized. Understanding the traits governing successful plasmid transmission within and between ecological niches is critical for developing effective AMR prevention strategies. Here, we identify ecological and structural factors shaping plasmid persistence and diss

SUBMITTER: Winkler MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12919850 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature