Molecular characterization of mutations in methicillin resistant coagulase negative Staphylococcus pasteuri from various food samples

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, University of Anbar, Ramadi, Iraq.

2 College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.

3 Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, University of Anbar, Ramadi, Iraq

10.22103/jab.2026.27378.1944

Abstract

Objective
Staphylococci are naturally present in the bodies of animals and humans, particularly in the digestive and respiratory systems. Staphylococcus spp. are widespread microorganisms in food environments, having been isolated from a variety of products, including meat, dairy, and ready-to-eat foods. This aim of the current study was to isolate and identify Staphylococcus pasteuri from various food products (meat and cheese) and food handlers, and to characterize their antibiotic resistance profiles and genetic mutations using the whole-genome data.
Materials and methods
A total of 58 food samples (fresh meat, cooked meat, and cheese) and 13 hand swabs from food handlers were collected in Baghdad, Iraq. The Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used to screen isolates for methicillin resistance. Output of this method was confirmed via the VITEK 2 system. Selected resistant strains were sequenced using Illumina technology to study whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and to analyze resistance genes and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Results
Staphylococcus pasteuri was successfully isolated from the tested food samples and food handlers. The results highlighted its potential transmission through the food chain. A high prevalence of multi-drug resistance traits was determined by considering phenotypic and molecular characterization. Key metabolic pathways, including NAD+ dependent enzymes and the phosphoenolpyruvate phosphotransferase system (PTS) were revealed by WGS analysis. These results indicated high metabolic versatility and adaptability to different type of food environments. Moreover, significant plasticity was revealed by genomic analysis. These results were characterized by the presence of mobile genetic elements, resistance determinants, and numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Notably, high-impact mutations were detected within uncharacterized domains (DUFs), specifically DUF3310 and DUF771, which may possess novel regulatory functions.
Conclusion
The results of the present study showed that S. pasteuri has a highly flexible and comprehensive genomic architecture. This enables it to survive, adapt, and spread antibiotic resistance through the food chain. This is a significant public health concern that must be addressed.

Keywords

References

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Available Online from 14 July 2026

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