A novel report of colistin-resistant Escherichia coli carrying mcr-1 gene from animal and human feacal samples in Nigeria

Background: The mobilized colistin resistance (m cr)-1 gene confers transferable colistin resistance. Reports of mcr-1-positive Escherichia coli (MCRPE) have attracted substantial attention. However, in Nigeria, there is no report of mcr-1 gene resistance. Since colistin is a last resort for multiple drug-resistant isolates, this study therefore report the prevalence of mcr-1 gene among E. coli isolated from human and animal sources. Methods: Out of a total of 280 samples collected from animal and hum an faecal samples from selected farms in Oyo and Osun States, Southwestern Nigeria between July 2015 and June 2016, 60 E. coli were identified using standard microbiological methods. The mcr-1 gene was detected in the isolates by conventional PCR assay. Results: The m cr-1 gene was low and not statistically significant (p≥0.05). It was detected in 5 (8.3%) of 60 E. coli isolates (4= animals; 1= human) Conclusion: This study is the first report of mcr -1 gene from E. coli from human and animal sources in Nigeria. This calls for urgent caution in the use of colistin in animal husbandry.