Escherichia coli strain:K-12 Genome sequencing and assembly. Escherichia coli strain:K-12

This is the whole genome sequence of the SMMR4 strain, one of two spontaneous amikacin-resistant mutants isolated to investigate the molecular mechanisms of resistance in Escherichia coli. One was submitted earlier (PRJNA1024369). These mutants exhibited resistance not only to amikacin but also to several other aminoglycoside antibiotics, including gentamicin, hygromycin B, streptomycin, and kanamycin. Whole-genome sequencing has unveiled specific mutations in two crucial genes: acrE (C440 to T440) and fusA (C1774 to T1774). acrE gene is responsible for encoding the AcrE multidrug efflux pump membrane fusion lipoprotein, while fusA is the gene that encodes Elongation Factor G. These mutations have been pinpointed as the primary drivers of resistance to multiple aminoglycosides. To confirm the pivotal role of these mutations in aminoglycoside resistance, we conducted genetic analyses using co-transduction. Since both the strains (SMMR4 and SMMR5) have the same base change in acrE and fusA, we are compelled to believe that C440 may serve as a potential hotspot for cross-resistance towards aminoglycosides. The results provided convincing evidence that these identified mutations, on their own, are indeed enough to render Escherichia coli resistant to a range of aminoglycosides. This research significantly advances our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of aminoglycoside resistance mechanisms, providing invaluable insights into the mechanisms by which bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics that are critically important.