Role of mobile DNA in the evolution of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis

Publication Type:
Journal Article
Citation:
Science, 2003, 299 (5615), pp. 2071 - 2074
Issue Date:
2003-03-28
Filename Description Size
Thumbnail2071.full.pdfPublished Version339.77 kB
Adobe PDF
Full metadata record
The complete genome sequence of Enterococcus faecalis V583, a vancomycin-resistant clinical isolate, revealed that more than a quarter of the genome consists of probable mobile or foreign DNA. One of the predicted mobile elements is a previously unknown vanB vancomycin-resistance conjugative transposon. Three plasmids were identified, including two pheromone-sensing conjugative plasmids, one encoding a previously undescribed pheromone inhibitor. The apparent propensity for the incorporation of mobile elements probably contributed to the rapid acquisition and dissemination of drug resistance in the enterococci.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: