Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Escherichia Coli Strains Isolated from The Water of The Amazon River, State of Amapá

Abstract

Objective: We investigated the identification of E. coli strains in water samples from the Amazon River in the state of Amapá to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile and verify the presence of virulence factors and resistance genes. Reference theoretical: Antimicrobial resistance is a global public health concern, and the presence of resistant bacteria in water samples represents an additional risk for the spread of these microorganisms, with great impact on society in general, especially after the discovery of pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. Method: The bacterial isolates were submitted to the technique of isolation of colonies in selective medium and identification by biochemical tests. Isolates identified as Escherichia coli were submitted to the antimicrobial sensitivity test and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to search for virulence genes and drug resistance. Results and conclusion: The results showed that the strains of E. coli isolated from the water samples of the Amazon River showed high rates of antimicrobial resistance. In addition, virulence gene markers were detected: eagg, eaeA, stx1, stx2, as well as resistance markers: qnrB and qnrS. Index of resistance to multiple antimicrobials MARI ranged from 0.1 to 0.6. All collection sites of water isolates has the presence of strains with multiresistance. Research implications: This study revealed the importance of monitoring water quality and implementing control measures to prevent the spread of resistant and potentially pathogenic bacteria. Originality/value: The research highlights the importance of implementing policies aimed at conserving Brazil's natural resources.