Metagenomic and whole-genome characterization of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii carrying blaOXA-23 gene within the Tn2006 transposon among ICU patients.

PURPOSE: To characterize carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii carrying blaOXA-23 genes within the Tn2006 transposon using metagenomic and whole-genome sequencing, focusing on their genetic features, antimicrobial resistance, and potential for clonal spread and horizontal gene transfer among intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

METHODS: Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples from 28 ICU patients were analysed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing to detect pathogens and resistance genes. A. baumannii isolates underwent whole-genome sequencing for genetic diversity assessment. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and comparative genomic analysis were performed.

RESULTS: Metagenomic next-generation sequencing revealed mixed infections in 71.4% of patients, identifying multiple bacteria, viruses, fungi, and Mycoplasma species. A. baumannii was detected in 25 samples, often alongside other pathogens. All isolates harboured blaOXA-23 within Tn2006 on the chromosome and belonged to sequence type ST2, indicating clonal dissemination despite significant genetic diversity (up to 2969 single-nucleotide polymorphism differences). The isolates were highly resistant to multiple antibiotics but remained susceptible to tigecycline and colistin. Comparative genomic analysis with 238 global carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii genomes confirmed the prevalence of the Tn2006 transposon carrying blaOXA-23 in ST2 strains, emphasizing the potential for rapid spread of this resistance mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS: The widespread presence of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii carrying blaOXA-23 within Tn2006 among ICU patients poses a significant public health concern. The high rate of mixed infections and the potential for horizontal gene transfer complicate infection management in critically ill patients. Enhanced infection control measures, continuous surveillance, and targeted interventions are urgently needed to prevent further dissemination of these resistant strains in hospital settings.