Detection of Class 1 and 2 Integrons Among Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli Isolates

Abstract

Background:: Integrons are frequently detected in clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae. These elements are able to capture and express gene cassettes encoding antibiotic resistance. Numerous studies have examined the distribution of integrons in Escherichia coli. Despite this, there is a paucity of epidemiological data on the occurrence of integrons as well as extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) among enteropathogenic E. coli isolates. Objectives:: The main aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of integrons as well as ESBLs among enteropathogenic E. coli isolates obtained from children with diarrhea in Tehran, Iran. Patients and Methods:: In total, 42 enteropathogenic E. coli strains were isolated from children with diarrhea and examined for the presence of class 1 and 2 integrons. The combined disk method was also performed to detect ESBL production. Statistical analysis was used for the comparison of the categorical data. Results:: Class 1 integron was identified in 24 (57.1%) isolates, while only 2 (4.8%) isolates harbored class 2 integron. Integrons were significantly associated with resistance to certain antibiotics, including; co-trimoxazole (P = 0.016) and tetracycline (P = 0.006). Of the 42 enteropathogenic E. coli isolates, 9 (21.4%) isolates were ESBL producers. However, no significant association was observed between the existence of integrons and ESBL production (P = 0.26). Conclusions:: Class 1 integrons are prevalent among enteropathogenic E. coli isolates, regardless of whether or not they produce ESBLs. This study emphasizes the alarming role of integrons in antibiotic resistance within diarrheagenic E. coli strains.