Characterization of the susceptibility profile to antimicrobials and production of metallo-beta-lactamases in P. aeruginosa isolated from alluvial sediments of the Rio Santo Antônio, Conceição do Mato Dentro - MG

• Grant number: 24/05815-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Biology and Physiology of Microorganisms
• Principal Investigator: Rafael Nakamura da Silva
• Grantee: Bianca de Andrade Rodrigues Pereira
• Host Institution: Universidade de Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP). Campus Ribeirão Preto. Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the greatest threats to global public health. Furthermore, heavy metal pollution can also increase the level of AMR, raising concerns for the ecosystem and, consequently, for public health. In Brazil, an interesting place for investigation is the environment affected by mining activities, which may be contaminated with different heavy metals. This project aims to produce a bacterial collection composed of P. aeruginosa isolated from alluvial sediments of the Rio Santo Antônio and water bodies close to the landfill in the municipality of Conceição do Mato Dentro, Minas Gerais. As well as characterize the phenotypic susceptibility profile to antimicrobials and the possible production of metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) from this collection. A total of 88 bacterial isolates were obtained from samples collected at ten different selected points. The bacterial isolates will be subjected to species identification using the MALDI-TOF-MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) technique. For the phenotypic susceptibility test to antimicrobials, the disk-diffusion technique will be used. The evaluation of the phenotypic expression of MBL production will be carried out through tests using imipenem discs with and without EDTA. Considering the relevance of combating and monitoring the great threat of AMR, as well as its relationship with tolerance to heavy metals and the harmful effects on health, it is extremely important to generate bacterial collections from potentially bacteria-selective environments. resistant. Thus, in addition to the important data acquired in this investigation, future research can be carried out, such as the bioremediation potential of isolates, detection of antimicrobial resistance genes, resistance to heavy metals and virulence.