Hidden VIM-1 metallo-beta-lactamase phenotypes among Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates

J Clin Microbiol. 2008 Jan;46(1):346-9. doi: 10.1128/JCM.01670-07. Epub 2007 Nov 21.

Abstract

A total of 87 Acinetobacter baumannii nonrepetitive consecutive clinical isolates were tested for the presence of metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs). Results of phenotypic assays (MBL Etest, imipenem/imipenem-EDTA combined-disk test, and imipenem/EDTA double-disk synergy test) were negative in all cases, but molecular testing revealed the presence of two bla(VIM-1)-carrying isolates. One isolate had bla(VIM-1) preceded by a weak P1 promoter, and both had inactivated P2 promoters and reduced bla(VIM-1) expression, partially justifying the results revealing hidden MBL phenotypes.

MeSH terms

  • Acinetobacter Infections / microbiology
  • Acinetobacter baumannii / drug effects
  • Acinetobacter baumannii / enzymology*
  • Acinetobacter baumannii / isolation & purification
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics
  • Humans
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods
  • beta-Lactamases / biosynthesis
  • beta-Lactamases / genetics
  • beta-Lactams / pharmacology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • DNA, Bacterial
  • beta-Lactams
  • VIM-1 metallo-beta-lactamase
  • beta-Lactamases