In a groundbreaking study published in *Veterinary Sciences* (translated from Chinese as “Veterinary Sciences”), researchers have uncovered a concerning case of antimicrobial resistance in an ostrich, shedding light on the potential risks to both animal and human health. The study, led by Jing Hu from the College of Animal Science and Technology at Guangxi University in China, details the genomic characterization of an *Escherichia coli* (*E. coli*) strain isolated from the brain of an ostrich, highlighting the alarming spread of multidrug resistance and virulence factors.
The outbreak occurred at an ostrich breeding facility, where birds exhibited severe clinical signs, including diarrhea and paralysis, with some cases resulting in fatal outcomes. Conventional antibiotic treatments proved ineffective, prompting a deeper investigation into the underlying cause. Brain and liver specimens were collected for diagnostic analysis, leading to the isolation of an *E. coli* strain designated HZDC01 from cerebral tissues. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a complex web of resistance mechanisms and virulence factors that could have significant implications for both veterinary and human medicine.
“Our findings underscore the critical need for vigilant monitoring and comprehensive genomic analysis of bacterial pathogens in animal populations,” said Jing Hu, the lead author of the study. “The identification of multiple resistance genes and virulence factors in this *E. coli* strain highlights the potential for horizontal gene transfer and the spread of resistance within and between bacterial populations.”
The genomic analysis of strain HZDC01 revealed a multitude of resistance genes conferring multidrug resistance. Notably, the chromosomal DNA harbored numerous resistance genes, while two plasmids—one of the p0111-type carrying the *bla**CTX-M-55* gene and another of the IncX1-type harboring a suite of resistance genes including *rmtB*, *sul1*, *APH(6)-Id*, *tet(A)*, *AAC(3)-IIc*, *aadA2*, *bla**TEM-1B*, and *floR*—were identified. These plasmids contain mobile genetic elements that facilitate horizontal gene transfer, amplifying the risk of resistance-gene dissemination.
Additionally, the study identified the *ibeB* and *ibeC* genes, which encode proteins involved in the invasion of brain microvascular endothelial cells. These genes may enable *E. coli* to penetrate the blood–brain barrier, potentially leading to meningitis and posing a life-threatening risk to the host. This is the first report of the isolation and characterization of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) *E. coli* from the brain of an ostrich with paralysis.
The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate veterinary concerns. The spread of antimicrobial resistance in animal populations can have far-reaching consequences for human health, as resistant bacteria can be transmitted to humans through direct contact or contaminated food products. The study’s findings emphasize the need for robust surveillance systems and the development of novel antimicrobial therapies to combat the growing threat of multidrug-resistant pathogens.
“This research provides valuable genomic insights into the antimicrobial resistance profiles and pathogenic mechanisms of ostrich-derived *E. coli* isolates,” said Jing Hu. “It underscores the importance of a One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health to address the complex challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance.”
As the world grapples with the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance, studies like this one are crucial for informing policy decisions, guiding clinical practices, and driving innovation in the development of new treatments. The findings from this research could shape future developments in the field, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying antimicrobial resistance and the strategies needed to mitigate its impact.
The study, titled “Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomic Characterization of an *Escherichia coli* Strain Harboring p0111 and an IncX1-Type Plasmid, Isolated from the Brain of an Ostrich,” was published in *Veterinary Sciences*, providing a critical contribution to the ongoing efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance and protect both animal and human health.