Biofilms and efflux pump regulatory gene () in multidrug-resistant isolated from migratory birds in Egypt.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) is a global threat to public health. This study aimed to determine biofilms and efflux pump regulatory gene () in MDR isolates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 fecal samples of aquatic migratory birds collected during hunting season in Egypt were evaluated for the detection of according to standard culture-based methods. The antibiotic susceptibility of strains was evaluated using disk diffusion methods. The biofilm formation ability of the isolates was phenotypically determined using a colorimetric microtitration plate assay. Polymerase chain reaction amplification was performed to detect biofilm genes ( and ) and .

RESULTS

In total, 19 isolates (45.2%) were recovered from the 42 fecal samples of migratory birds. All isolates were identified as MDR , and 78.9% of the strains produced biofilms at different degrees. Molecular detection of biofilm extracellular polymeric substances revealed that was the most predominant gene in the biofilm-producing isolates, followed by . was detected in 63.2% of MDR isolates, and its prevalence was higher in non-biofilm-producing strains (75%) than in biofilm-producing strains (60%).

CONCLUSION

Antibiotic resistance in isolates recovered from migratory birds through various mechanisms is a major public and animal health problem. It is important to consider the significance of migratory birds in disease transmission.