Pan-genome analysis reveals the triangle mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, pathogenicity, and biofilm formation in Enterococcus faecalis.

Abstract

The bacterial genus Enterococcus is typically nonpathogenic and a commensal that lives symbiotically with humans. However, the transition from commensal to opportunistic pathogenic is a complex, multi-step process driven by environmental adaptation. The study focused on 214 Enterococcus faecalis genome sequences, selected from various environments and organisms, including humans and animals, and targeted genes associated with biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance, and quorum sensing. KEGG pathway analysis identified 36 potential drug targets, comprising n = 15 non-enzymatic and n = 21 enzymatic targets, primarily located in the cytoplasm, including four surface proteins and seven pharmacological targets. The study also revealed resistance-conferring genes, including ABC transporters, major facilitator superfamily (MFS) proteins, and antibiotic efflux pumps, which mediate resistance to glycopeptides, quinolones, aminoglycosides, and tetracyclines. In this pangenome study, critical insights into the development of multidrug resistance in nosocomial pathogens are provided. Insights into the outcomes could enlighten novel drug designs and strategies to combat infections in both clinical and environmental settings.