Profiles of antibiotic resistance genes in the Lhasa River / 公共卫生与预防医学

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the pollution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the Lhasa River and provide a scientific basis for the safety of drinking water for the regional population and the prevention and control of water environment pollution. Methods A total of five water samples were collected in the Lhasa River in July 2022. Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay, 19 types of ARGs, including eight “last-resort” ARGs (LARGs) were detected and analyzed. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS 22.0 software, and Student's t-test was used to compare data between two groups. Results All the 19 ARGs were detected with high frequencies, with the aminoglycoside resistance gene aadA having the highest concentration, followed by the sulfonamide resistance gene sul1 and the macrolide resistance gene ermB. Among the eight LARGs, the carbapenem resistance gene blaOXA-48 had the highest concentration. The absolute and relative concentrations of LARGs were lower than those of common ARGs. There was a statistically significant difference in the absolute concentrations between them, but no significant difference was observed in the relative concentrations. Conclusion Both “conventional” ARGs and LAGRs have been detected in the Lhasa River. Although they are at a relatively low level compared to other domestic waters, in view of the serious adverse effects that ARGs, especially LARGs, may cause, the pollution of ARGs in the Lhasa River should be taken seriously.