Phage-ICE tandem units drive antimicrobial resistance spread across bacterial species
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A study published in Science Advances has characterized cotransferable genetic units formed by the accretion of phages and integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) in Streptococcus. The work identified a fail-safe pathway of RecA-dependent homologous recombination that operates when excision of these units is impaired. Screening across seven bacterial phyla and 135 species uncovered 612 phage-ICE tandems, including in multidrug-resistant pathogens. The tandems can cotransfer flanking DNA, alter transcriptional profiles, and increase oxidative stress tolerance. The findings establish phage-ICE accretion as a mechanism by which bacteria adapt and spread antimicrobial resistance, though the broader distribution and clinical impact of these units among pathogens remain to be characterized.
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- Science AdvancesPickPhage-ICE tandems facilitate bacterial adaptation and antimicrobial resistance spread.
The study characterized cotransferable units formed by phage-ICE accretion in Streptococcus and found a fail-safe pathway that spreads via RecA-dependent homologous recombination when excision is impaired. The team screened 612 phage-ICE tandems across seven phyla and 135 species, including multidrug-resistant pathogens, and these units can cotransfer flanking DNA, altering transcriptional programs and oxidative stress tolerance. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aed3416
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