First detection of an optrA-positive, linezolid-resistant ST16 Enterococcus faecalis from human in Greece

Abstract

Until now, in Greece, the resistance of enterococci to linezolid was associated with mutations of domain V of 23S ribosomal RNA (G2576T). Here we report the first linezolid-resistant optrA-positive Enterococcus faecalis sequence type (ST) 16 isolated from a patient with a urinary tract infection (UTI). No travels overseas, contact with food-producing animals or previous treatment with linezolid were reported. Plasmid analysis suggested the chromosomal location of optrA gene. Additionally, whole genome sequencing data revealed the association of optrA with transposon Tn554 and the coexistence with fexA, spc and ermA-like resistance genes. A similar genetic structure has been previously identified in an ST767 E. faecalis from Taiwan. Keywords: E. feacalis, linezolid-resistance, optrA gene