Molecular Analysis of Metallo Beta Lactamase in Multi Drug Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa among the Clinical Isolates

Background One of the major clinical problems regarding pseudomonas aeruginosa is attributed to the production of metallo-betalactamase (MBL) enzymes. This group of enzymes are a member of beta-lactamases which constitute Ambler class B that hydrolyze - carbapenems. This study was carried out to find out the predominant resistance mechanisms among MDRPA and the prevalence of corresponding resistance genes. Materials and Methods MDRPA isolates collected from various clinical samples for a period of one year from March 2015 to February 2016 were included to detect the predominant mechanism of resistance using phenotypic and molecular methods. Molecular characterization of all these isolates was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of blaVIM-2, blaIMP-1, blaOXA-23, and blaNDM-1 genes with specific primers. Results Among 120 MDRPA isolates 70 (58.33 %) were MBL producers. Molecular characterization studied by PCR showed 15 (12.5 %) of Vim 2 gene and only 2 (1.66 %) of IMP 1 gene. None of the 120 MDRPA have produced OXA 23 and NDM gene in our study. Conclusion The prevalence of MBLs has been increasing worldwide, particularly among P. aeruginosa, leading to severe limitations in the therapeutic options for the management. Thus, proper resistance screening measures and appropriate antibiotic policy can be strictly adopted by all the healthcare facility providers to overcome these superbugs.