Unique Genetic Signature Predicts Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

Researchers at Tulane University have discovered a unique genetic signature in bacteria that can predict their likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance. This finding, published in Nature Communications, could lead to more effective treatments against deadly, drug-resistant pathogens.

The study focused on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria known for its multidrug resistance and common presence in hospital infections. By analyzing bacterial genomes for mutational signatures, the team identified a distinct pattern associated with DNA repair deficiencies that accurately predicted the bacteria's likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance.

First author Kalen Hallexplained, "If we see this pattern when we sequence its genome, we can expect it to become drug-resistant if you try to treat it."

Senior author Zac Pursell added that it is "essentially a fingerprint that's able to predict the presence of potential multidrug-resistant bacteria."

The research also revealed that bacteria can acquire resistance to drugs not involved in initial treatment, emphasizing the importance of identifying the correct treatment path. Hall noted, "Over 50% of antibiotics prescribed are either unnecessary or the wrong treatment, and if you provide the wrong antibiotic, you're promoting more and more resistance."

The team found success in identifying separate resistance pathways and administering specific combinations of antibiotics that target these pathways, preventing bacteria from acquiring drug resistance. While still in early stages, this approach could lead to a diagnostic tool that reduces antibiotic overuse and enables more precise treatment of bacterial infections.