Metagenomic profiling of microbial diversity and antibiotic resistance genes in a wastewater influent from Iasi, Romania

This project investigates the microbial community structure and the presence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in influent samples collected at different time points from the a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Iasi, located in the northeastern region of Romania. Microbial diversity and the presence of ARGs were assessed in four raw urban wastewater samples using shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Taxonomic classification of microbial communities was performed using Kraken2, while antibiotic resistance genes were identified using the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD). The study aims to characterize the taxonomic diversity of microorganisms, including potential human pathogens, and to profile the resistome of the wastewater environment. This work provides valuable information on the occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and ARGs in WWTPs, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance efforts in Romania. The results support the development of effective monitoring and mitigation strategies, with potential impact on public health policies related to AMR surveillance and wastewater management within the framework of the One Health approach.