Genetic Characterization and Enhanced Surveillance of Ceftriaxone-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae Strain, Alberta, Canada, 2018

High-level ceftriaxone resistance due to transfer of penA allele 60.001 into endemic gonococcal lineages in Hangzhou, China

OBJECTIVES

Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains associated with the high-level ceftriaxone-resistant FC428 clone or containing its main resistance determinant, penA allele 60.001, have shown global transmission. In Hangzhou, China, 10% of the isolates were associated with the FC428 clone in 2019. Here, we investigated ceftriaxone resistance and the prevalence of FC428-associated strains in Hangzhou in 2020-22.

METHODS

A total of 209 gonococcal isolates were investigated for antimicrobial susceptibility to ceftriaxone and other antibiotics by agar dilution method. Sequence types and penA alleles were determined by PCR and sequence analysis.

RESULTS

Resistance to ceftriaxone (MIC > 0.125 mg/L) was observed for 16% (33/209) of the isolates, whereas 6.7% (14/209) of the isolates displayed high-level ceftriaxone resistance (MIC = 1 mg/L). These 14 high-level ceftriaxone-resistant isolates and another isolate displaying an MIC = 0.25 mg/L contained penA allele 60.001, with eight of these isolates, all from 2020 to 2021 belonging to MLST ST1903, the sequence type commonly associated with the original FC428 clone. Importantly, the six penA allele 60.001-containing isolates from 2022 belonged to MLST ST8123, ST7365 and ST7367, which are among the most frequently encountered sequence types found in China. Therefore, these results indicate that endemic lineages in China have acquired penA allele 60.001.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we report continued transmission of gonococcal strains associated with the FC428 clone or containing penA allele 60.001 in Hangzhou. A major concern for public health is the acquisition of penA allele 60.001 by successful endemic lineages, which might enhance the transmission of this high-level ceftriaxone resistance trait.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae treatment failure to the recommended antibiotic regimen-Québec, Canada, 2015-19

OBJECTIVE

To describe Neisseria gonorrhoeae treatment failure to the recommended antimicrobial regimens (azithromycin, cefixime and ceftriaxone).

METHODS

Our study was a longitudinal analysis of treatment failures from an observational open cohort of gonococcal infection cases collected in Québec, Canada (n = 2547) between September 2015 and December 2019. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, direct case interviews and chart reviews. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the agar dilution method. To be retained as a treatment failure, cases must have had (i) a laboratory-confirmed gonococcal infection; (ii) a documented treatment; (iii) a positive test of cure (TOC) performed within a defined period and (iv) no sexual contact (vaginal, oral or anal), even protected with a condom, between the beginning of treatment and the positive TOC. A broader definition, including suspected cases, was also examined.

RESULTS

Among 1593 cases where a TOC was performed, 83 had a positive TOC: 11 were retained as treatment failure, and 6 were considered suspected cases (overall = 17/1593; 1.1%). Possible explanations for retained or suspected treatment failure included resistance to the antibiotics used for treatment (n = 1), pharyngeal infection (n = 9, of which 5 had been treated with ceftriaxone and 4 with other regimens); and azithromycin monotherapy (n = 1). Some cases had more than one potential explanation.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment failure occurred in 1.1% of cases of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection for which a TOC was performed, including some cases of pharyngeal infection treated with ceftriaxone.

Cyr SB, Schlanger K, Raphael BH, Kersh EN, Joseph SJ. Emergence and evolution of mosaic penA-60 and penA-237 alleles in a Neisseria gonorrhoeae core genogroup that was historically susceptible to extended spectrum cephalosporins

Introduction

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) has successively developed resistance to all previously recommended antimicrobial therapies, with ceftriaxone being the last option for monotherapy of gonorrhea. Global emergence and international spread of the FC428 clone derived mosaic penA-60 allele, associated with highlevel ceftriaxone minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in non FC428 clone Ng lineages, has become an increasing concern. The penA-60 allele carrying Ng was first identified in the U.S. in Las Vegas, Nevada (2019; GCWGS-102723), with a multi-locus sequence type (MLST)-1901 strain, in a non FC428 clone Ng lineage, which is associated with a historically ceftriaxone susceptible core genogroup. Later in 2022, an allele genetically similar to penA-60, mosaic penA-237, was identified in the UK (H22-722) and France (F92) with high-level ceftriaxone MICs and both belonged to MLST-1901.

Methods

In this study, we assessed phylogenomic relatedness and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinant profiles of these three isolates with high-level ceftriaxone MICs among a global collection of 2,104 genomes belonging to the MLST-1901 core genome cluster group 31, which includes strains separated by a locus threshold of 200 or fewer differences (Ng_cgc_200). Recombination events in and around the penA coding region were catalogued and potential sources of inter species recombinant DNA were also inferred.

Results

The global population structure of MLST-1901 core genogroup falls into 4 major lineages. Isolates GCWGS-10723, F92, and H22-722 clustered within Lineage 1, which was dominated by non-mosaic penA-5 alleles. These three isolates formed a clade within Lineage 1 that consisted of isolates from North America and southeast Asia. Neisseria subflava and Neisseria sicca were identified as likely progenitors of two independent recombination events that may have led to the generation of mosaic penA-60 and penA-237, within a possible non-mosaic penA-5 background.

Discussions

Our study suggests that there are multiple evolutionary pathways that could generate concerning mosaic penA alleles via homologous recombination of historically susceptible Ng lineages with Neisseria commensals. Enhanced surveillance of gonococcal strains and Neisseria commensals is crucial for understanding of the evolution of AMR, particularly in less-studied regions (e.g., Asia), where high-level ceftriaxone MICs and multi-drug resistance are more prevalent.

Current alternative therapies for treating drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae causing ophthalmia neonatorum

Ophthalmia neonatorum is a microbial contraction, damaging eyesight, occurring largely among neonates. Infants are particularly vulnerable to bacterial infections acquired during birth from infected mothers, especially from Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis. Over the decades, N. gonorrhoeae is alarmingly developing a resistance to most antibiotics currently prescribed. To counter this challenge, it is imperative to find potent and cost-effective therapeutic agents for prophylaxis and treatment, to which the N. gonorrhoeae cannot easily develop resistance. This review showcases alternate therapies such as antimicrobial-fatty acids, -peptides, -nano-formulations etc., currently evident against N. gonorrhoeae-mediated ophthalmia neonatorum, which remains a major cause of ocular morbidity, blindness and even death among neonates in developing countries.

Use of genome sequencing to resolve differences in gradient diffusion and agar dilution antimicrobial susceptibility testing performance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates in Alberta, Canada

Agar dilution is the gold standard method for phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. However, this method is laborious and requires expertise, so laboratories that perform N. gonorrhoeae AST may choose alternative methods such as disk diffusion and gradient diffusion. In this study, we retrospectively compare the performance of gradient diffusion to agar dilution for 2,394 unique N. gonorrhoeae isolates identified in Alberta from 2017 to 2020 against azithromycin, cefixime, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, penicillin, and tetracycline. Genome sequencing was utilized to resolve discrepancies between AST methods, detect antimicrobial resistance markers, and identify trends between error rates and sequence types (STs) of isolates. Over 90% of N. gonorrhoeae isolates were susceptible to azithromycin, cefixime, and ceftriaxone, whereas decreased susceptibility was observed for ciprofloxacin, penicillin, and tetracycline. Categorical (CA) and essential agreement (EA) was poorest between the two methods for penicillin (CA: 86.02%; EA: 77.69%) and tetracycline (CA: 47.22%; EA: 55.96%); however, the low CA was primarily attributed to minor errors. Antimicrobial agents with errors outside of acceptable limits included azithromycin (very major error: 18.42%; major error: 7.73%) and tetracycline (very major error: 6.17%). Genome sequencing on a subset of isolates resolved 30.3% of the azithromycin major errors and confirmed the azithromycin or tetracycline very major errors. Significant associations between certain STs and error types for azithromycin and tetracycline were also identified. Overall, gradient diffusion compared well to agar dilution for cefixime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin, and genome sequencing was identified as a useful tool to arbitrate discrepant susceptibility testing results between gradient diffusion and agar dilution for N. gonorrhoeae.

Antimicrobial susceptibilities of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Canada, 2021

Background

In Canada, gonorrhea is the second most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection. The Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (GASP - Canada), a passive surveillance system monitoring antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Canada since 1985, is the source for this summary of demographics, antimicrobial resistance and N. gonorrhoeae multi-antigen sequence typing (NG-MAST) of gonococcal isolates collected in Canada in 2021.

Methods

Provincial and territorial public health laboratories submitted N. gonorrhoeae cultures and data to the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg as part of the surveillance system. The antimicrobial resistance and molecular type of each isolate received were determined.

Results

In total, 3,439 N. gonorrhoeae cultures were received from laboratories across Canada in 2021, a 9.9% increase since 2020 (n=3,130). Decreased susceptibility to cefixime increased significantly (p<0.001) in 2021 (1.5%) compared to 2017 (0.6%). No significant change in decreased susceptibility to ceftriaxone was detected between 2017 and 2021 (0.6%) (p>0.001); however, one ceftriaxone-resistant isolate was identified. Azithromycin resistance decreased significantly (p<0.001) in 2021 (7.6%) compared to 2017 (11.7%); however, there was a significant increase (p<0.001) in the proportion of cultures with an azithromycin minimum inhibitory concentration of at least 1 mg/L (2017=22.2% to 2021=28.1%). In 2021, NG-MAST-19875 (15.3%) was the most prevalent sequence type in Canada; 20.3% of isolates with this sequence type were resistant to azithromycin.

Conclusion

The spread of antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhea is a significant public health concern. The continued regional and national surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in N. gonorrhoeae is essential in ensuring effective treatment therapies are recommended.

High-level in vitro resistance to gentamicin acquired in a stepwise manner in Neisseria gonorrhoeae

OBJECTIVES

Gentamicin is used in several alternative treatments for gonorrhoea. Verified clinical Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates with gentamicin resistance are mainly lacking and understanding the mechanisms for gonococcal gentamicin resistance is imperative. We selected gentamicin resistance in gonococci in vitro, identified the novel gentamicin-resistance mutations, and examined the biofitness of a high-level gentamicin-resistant mutant.

METHODS

Low- and high-level gentamicin resistance was selected in WHO X (gentamicin MIC = 4 mg/L) on gentamicin-gradient agar plates. Selected mutants were whole-genome sequenced. Potential gentamicin-resistance fusA mutations were transformed into WT strains to verify their impact on gentamicin MICs. The biofitness of high-level gentamicin-resistant mutants was examined using a competitive assay in a hollow-fibre infection model.

RESULTS

WHO X mutants with gentamicin MICs of up to 128 mg/L were selected. Primarily selected fusA mutations were further investigated, and fusAR635L and fusAM520I + R635L were particularly interesting. Different mutations in fusA and ubiM were found in low-level gentamicin-resistant mutants, while fusAM520I was associated with high-level gentamicin resistance. Protein structure predictions showed that fusAM520I is located in domain IV of the elongation factor-G (EF-G). The high-level gentamicin-resistant WHO X mutant was outcompeted by the gentamicin-susceptible WHO X parental strain, suggesting lower biofitness.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe the first high-level gentamicin-resistant gonococcal isolate (MIC = 128 mg/L), which was selected in vitro through experimental evolution. The most substantial increases of the gentamicin MICs were caused by mutations in fusA (G1560A and G1904T encoding EF-G M520I and R635L, respectively) and ubiM (D186N). The high-level gentamicin-resistant N. gonorrhoeae mutant showed impaired biofitness.

Increase in Multidrug Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428-Like Isolates Harboring the Mosaic penA 60.001 Gene, in Nanjing, China (2017-2020)

Background

Since the first Chinese report of the ceftriaxone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428 clone in 2016, additional FC428-like, penA 60.001 isolates have been identified in China.

Objective

To document the rise in penA 60.001 isolates in Nanjing, China, and characterize their molecular and epidemiological features.

Methods

N. gonorrhoeae minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs, mg/L) for ceftriaxone, cefixime, penicillin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, spectinomycin, gentamicin and zoliflodacin were determined by agar dilution. MICs for ertapenem were measured by E-test. N. gonorrhoeae antimicrobial sequence typing (NG-STAR) of seven loci (penA, mtrR, porB, ponA, gyrA, parC and 23S rRNA) was analyzed together with N. gonorrhoeae multiantigen sequence typing (NG-MAST) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Phylogenetic analysis was also performed using whole genomic sequencing (WGS).

Results

Fourteen FC428-related penA 60.001 N. gonorrhoeae infections were identified out of 677 infections from 2017 to 2020, in Nanjing, representing an incremental yearly rise in the percentage of the city's N. gonorrhoeae isolates that were FC428-related. Seven FC428-related N. gonorrhoeae infections were acquired in Nanjing, proper; four others in eastern Chinese cities and three from unknown locations. All FC428-related isolates were resistant to ceftriaxone, cefixime, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline and penicillin but susceptible to spectinomycin, gentamicin, ertapenem and zoliflodacin; three strains were resistant to azithromycin. penA 60.001 isolates displayed closely related MLST types and NG-STAR types but relatively distant NG-MAST types. WGS showed a phylogenetic analysis that intermingled with other international isolates.

Conclusion

penA 60.001 N. gonorrhoeae isolates emerged in Nanjing, China, beginning in 2017, and have continued to rise.

Penicillin-Binding Protein Occupancy Dataset for 18 β-Lactams and 4 β-Lactamase Inhibitors in Neisseria gonorrhoeae

The lack of effective first-line antibiotic treatments against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and the worldwide dissemination of resistant strains, are the main drivers of a worsening global health crisis. β-lactam antibiotics have been the backbone of therapeutic armamentarium against gonococci. However, we are lacking critical insights to design rationally optimized therapies. In the present work, we generated the first PBP-binding data set on 18 currently available and clinically relevant β-lactams and 4 β-lactamase inhibitors in two N. gonorrhoeae ATCC type collection strains, 19424 and 49226 (PBP2 type XXII and A39T change in mtrR). PBP binding (IC50) was determined via the Bocillin FL binding assay in isolated membrane preparations. Three clusters of differential PBP IC50s were identified and were mostly consistent across both strains, but with quantitative differences. Carbapenems were coselective for PBP2 and PBP3 (0.01 to 0.03 mg/L). Third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins cefixime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, cefepime, and ceftriaxone showed the lowest IC50 values for PBP2 (0.01 mg/L), whereas cefoxitin, ceftaroline, and ceftolozane required higher concentrations (0.04 to >2 mg/L). Aztreonam was selective for PBP2 in both strains (0.03 to 0.07 mg/L); amdinocillin bound this PBP at higher concentrations (1.33 to 2.94 mg/L). Penicillins specifically targeted PBP2 in strain ATCC 19424 (0.02 to 0.19 mg/L) and showed limited inhibition in strain ATCC 49226 (0.01 to >2 mg/L). Preferential PBP2 binding was observed by β-lactam-based β-lactamase inhibitors sulbactam and tazobactam (1.07 to 6.02 mg/L); meanwhile, diazabicyclooctane inhibitors relebactam and avibactam were selective for PBP3 (1.27 to 5.40 mg/L). This data set will set the bar for future studies that will help the rational use and translational development of antibiotics against multidrug-resistant (MDR) N. gonorrhoeae. IMPORTANCE The manuscript represents the first N. gonorrhoeae PBP-binding data set for 22 chemically different drugs in two type strains with different genetic background. We have identified three clusters of drugs according to their PBP binding IC50s and highlighted the binding differences across the two strains studied. With the currently available genomic information and the PBP-binding data, we have been able to correlate the target attainment differences and the mutations that affect the drug uptake with the MIC changes. The results of the current work will allow us to develop molecular tools of great practical use for the study and the design of new rationally designed therapies capable of combating the growing MDR gonococci threat.

Dissemination of Neisseria gonorrhoeae with decreased susceptibility to extended-spectrum cephalosporins in Southern China, 2021: a genome-wide surveillance from 20 cities

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of untreatable gonococcal infection is an emerging threat, especially in Guangdong, a prosperous province in Southern China.

METHODS

N.gonorrhoeae was isolated from 20 cities in Guangdong and determined antimicrobial susceptibility. Through whole-genome sequencing (WGS), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), N.gonorrhoeae multiantigen sequence typing (NG-MAST), and N.gonorrhoeae sequence typing for antimicrobial resistance (NG-STAR) were obtained based on the PubMLST database ( https://pubmlst.org/ ). Phylogenetic analysis was used for dissemination and tracking analysis.

RESULTS

Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed on 347 isolates, and 50 isolates were identified as decreased susceptibility (DS) to cephalosporins. Of which 16.0% (8/50) were ceftriaxone DS, 38.0% (19/50) were cefixime DS, and 46.0% (23/50) were both ceftriaxone and cefixime DS. In all, the dual-resistant rate of the cephalosporin-DS isolates was 96.0% for penicillin and 98.0% for tetracycline-resistant, and 10.0% (5/50) were resistant to azithromycin. All cephalosporin-DS isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin but sensitive to spectinomycin. The predominant MLSTs were ST7363 (16%, 8/50), ST1903 (14%, 7/50), ST1901 (12%, 6/50), and ST7365 (10%, 5/50). Besides some isolates that failed genotyping (NA), NG-STAR ST1143 (n = 6) and NG-MAST ST17748 (n = 4) were the most prevalent. Twelve isolates with mosaic penA-60.001 allele retained the most elevated cephalosporin MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that epidemic penA-60.001 clones, either domestic or foreign, had spread to nine cities in Guangdong, and 9/12 clones were from the Pearl River Delta region.

CONCLUSIONS

N. gonorrhoeae with cephalosporins-DS was extensively disseminated in Guangdong, Southern China, requiring strict surveillance.

Antimicrobial susceptibilities of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Canada, 2020

Background

The Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme is a passive surveillance system that has monitored antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Canada since the 1980s. This article summarizes the demographics, antimicrobial resistances and NG-MAST (N. gonorrhoeae multiantigen sequence typing) for cultures collected in 2020.

Methods

The National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg received resistant N. gonorrhoeae cultures from provincial and territorial public health laboratories. Agar dilution was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations to ten antimicrobials for all cultures received at NML, according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The NG-MAST typing was also determined for each culture.

Results

A total of 3,130 N. gonorrhoeae cases were cultured across Canada in 2020; a 36% decrease from 2019 (n=4,859). The level of decreased susceptibility to cefixime increased significantly between 2016 and 2020 to 2.8% (p=0.0054). Decreased susceptibility to ceftriaxone declined significantly between 2016 (1.8%) and 2020 to 0.9% (p=0.001), and there was no significant change with azithromycin between 2016 (7.2%) and 2020 (6.1%). The proportion of cultures with an azithromycin minimum inhibitory concentrations of ≥1 mg/L increased significantly from 11.6% in 2016 to 15.3% in 2020 (p=0.0017). The most common NG-MAST type in Canada for 2020 was sequence type (ST)-11461, while ST-12302 was most commonly associated with azithromycin resistance and ST-16639 with cephalosporin decreased susceptibility.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial resistance in N. gonorrhoeae remains an important public health concern and continued surveillance is imperative to monitor trends to ensure the recommended therapies will be the most effective.

Molecular Mechanisms of Drug Resistance and Epidemiology of Multidrug-Resistant Variants of Neisseria gonorrhoeae

The paper presents various issues related to the increasing drug resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and the occurrence and spread of multidrug-resistant clones. One of the most important is the incidence and evolution of resistance mechanisms of N. gonorrhoeae to beta-lactam antibiotics. Chromosomal resistance to penicillins and oxyimino-cephalosporins and plasmid resistance to penicillins are discussed. Chromosomal resistance is associated with the presence of mutations in the PBP2 protein, containing mosaic variants and nonmosaic amino acid substitutions in the transpeptidase domain, and their correlation with mutations in the mtrR gene and its promoter regions (the MtrCDE membrane pump repressor) and in several other genes, which together determine reduced sensitivity or resistance to ceftriaxone and cefixime. Plasmid resistance to penicillins results from the production of beta-lactamases. There are different types of beta-lactamases as well as penicillinase plasmids. In addition to resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, the paper covers the mechanisms and occurrence of resistance to macrolides (azithromycin), fluoroquinolones and some other antibiotics. Moreover, the most important epidemiological types of multidrug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae, prevalent in specific years and regions, are discussed. Epidemiological types are defined as sequence types, clonal complexes and genogroups obtained by various typing systems such as NG-STAR, NG-MAST and MLST. New perspectives on the treatment of N. gonorrhoeae infections are also presented, including new drugs active against multidrug-resistant strains.

Increasing azithromycin resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae due to NG-MAST 12302 clonal spread in Canada, 2015-2018

Objectives: Azithromycin resistant (AZIR) gonorrhea has been steadily increasing in Canada over the past decade which is cause for alarm as azithromycin (AZI) has been part of the combination therapy recommended by the Canadian Guidelines on Sexually Transmitted Infections (CGSTI) since 2012.

Method: Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) with AZI MICs ≥ 1 mg/L collected between 2015 and 2018 as part of the Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Program-Canada underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing, molecular typing and whole genome sequencing. Regional, demographic and clinical isolation site comparisons were made to aid in our understanding of AZI susceptibility trending.

Results: 3,447 NG with AZI MICs ≥ 1 mg/L were identified in Canada, increasing from 6.3% in 2015 to 26.5% of isolates in 2018. Central Canada had the highest proportion rising from 9.2% in 2015 to 31.2% in 2018. 273 different NG-MAST sequence types were identified among these isolates with ST-12302 the most prevalent (50.9%). Whole genome sequencing identified the Neisseria lactamica -like mosaic mtr locus as the mechanism of AZIR in isolates of ST-12302 and isolates genetically similar (differ by ≤ 5 base pairs) designated as the ST-12302 genogroup, accounting for 65.2% of study isolateswhich were originally identified in central Canada but spread to other regions by 2018.

Conclusion: Genomic analysis indicated that AZIR in Canadian NG expanded rapidly due to clonal spread of the ST-12302 genogroup. The rapid expansion of this AZIR clonal group in all regions of Canada is of concern. CGSTI are currently under review to address the increase in AZIR in Canada.

Enhancing Gonococcal Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance in Cisgender Women, Strengthening the US Response to Resistant Gonorrhea, 2018 to 2019

BACKGROUND

Cisgender women have been underrepresented in antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea (ARGC) surveillance systems. Three of 8 project sites (City of Milwaukee [MIL], Guilford County [GRB], Denver County [DEN]), funded under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Strengthening the US Response to Resistant Gonorrhea (SURRG), focused efforts to better include cisgender women in ARGC surveillance.

METHODS

MIL, GRB, and DEN partnered with diverse health care settings and developed gonorrhea culture criteria to facilitate urogenital specimen collection in cisgender women and men. Regional laboratories within the Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory Network performed agar dilution antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) of gonococcal isolates. Data from 2018 and 2019 were analyzed.

RESULTS

In SURRG, 90.5% (11,464 of 12,667) of the cisgender women from whom urogenital culture specimens were collected were from MIL, GRB, and DEN. Of women in SURRG whose gonococcal isolates underwent AST, 70% were from these 3 sites. In these 3 sites, a substantial proportion of cisgender women with positive urogenital cultures and AST were from health care settings other than sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics (non-STD clinics; MIL, 56.0%; GRB, 80.4%; and DEN, 23.5%). Isolates with AST were obtained from 5.1%, 10.2%, and 2.4% of all diagnosed gonorrhea cases among cisgender women in MIL, GRB, and DEN, respectively, and were more often susceptible to all antibiotics than those from cisgender men from each of these sites.

CONCLUSIONS

With focused efforts and partnerships with non-STD clinics, 3 SURRG sites were able to include robust ARGC surveillance from cisgender women. These findings may guide further efforts to improve gender equity in ARGC surveillance.

Emergence and Characterization of a Ceftriaxone-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428 Clone Evolving Moderate-Level Resistance to Azithromycin in Shenzhen, China

We here described a ceftriaxone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428 clone (YL201) with moderate-level resistance to azithromycin in Shenzhen, South China in 2020. The NG-STAR type of YL201 is ST2238, containing a mosaic penA-60.001 allele, which is a typical characteristic of FC428 clone. YL201 harbours four copies of the 23S rRNA C2611T mutation, conferring moderate-level resistance to azithromycin. The MLST type is ST1600, identical with two N. gonorrhoeae FC428 clones identified in Hangzhou. Genome-wide phylogeny analysis demonstrates that YL201 is clustered with other FC428 clones from Hangzhou (South-east China) and Chengdu (South-west China). Isolates within this cluster have relatively higher MIC for ceftriaxone and display closely related MLST STs (ST1600 and ST7363) but are different from the ST of typical FC428 clone (ST1903). As ST1600 and ST7363 are common STs in Shenzhen, the further spread of FC428 clones may increase the severity of gonococcal resistance. In summary, identifying a multidrug-resistant (MDR) N. gonorrhoeae isolate in Shenzhen showed FC428 clones have undergone further transmission in China and presented more extensive and concerning antimicrobial resistance (AMR) characteristics during the spread.

Demographic and behavioural risk factors associated with reduced susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to first-line antimicrobials in South African men with gonococcal urethral discharge

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the predominant cause of male urethral discharge in South Africa, and escalating prevalence of gonococcal antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major health concern, both in-country and globally. We analysed the demographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics of 685 men presenting with gonococcal urethral discharge to sentinel surveillance clinics over a three-year period (2017 - 2019), to determine the burden of factors that are known to be associated with N. gonorrhoeae AMR to first-line therapy (defined as Group 1 isolates exhibiting resistance or reduced susceptibility to extended-spectrum cephalosporins or azithromycin). Among 685 men with gonococcal urethral discharge, median age was 28 years (IQR 24-32). Only two men (2/632; 0.3%) self-identified as homosexual; however, on further enquiry, another 16 (2%) confirmed that they had sex with men only. Almost 30% practised oral sex, and were at risk for pharyngeal gonococcal infection. In univariate analysis, male circumcision (OR 0.69; 95%CI 0.49-0.99), and recent sex outside the country (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.21-2.76) were significantly associated with having a Category 1 N. gonorrhoeae isolate. In a multivariable model, only sex outside South Africa increased the odds of being infected with a decreased susceptible/resistant N. gonorrhoeae isolate (aOR 1.64; 95%CI 1.05-2.55). These findings warrant the intensification of N. gonorrhoeae AMR surveillance among recently-arrived migrant and overseas traveler populations, as well as the inclusion of extragenital specimens for N. gonorrhoeae AMR surveillance purposes.

Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021

These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were updated by CDC after consultation with professionals knowledgeable in the field of STIs who met in Atlanta, Georgia, June 11-14, 2019. The information in this report updates the 2015 guidelines. These guidelines discuss 1) updated recommendations for treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis; 2) addition of metronidazole to the recommended treatment regimen for pelvic inflammatory disease; 3) alternative treatment options for bacterial vaginosis; 4) management of Mycoplasma genitalium; 5) human papillomavirus vaccine recommendations and counseling messages; 6) expanded risk factors for syphilis testing among pregnant women; 7) one-time testing for hepatitis C infection; 8) evaluation of men who have sex with men after sexual assault; and 9) two-step testing for serologic diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus. Physicians and other health care providers can use these guidelines to assist in prevention and treatment of STIs.

Epidemiology, Treatments, and Vaccine Development for Antimicrobial-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Current Strategies and Future Directions

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the world after Chlamydia trachomatis. The pathogen has developed resistance to every antibiotic currently approved for treatment, and multidrug-resistant strains have been identified globally. The current treatment recommended by the World Health Organization is ceftriaxone and azithromycin dual therapy. However, resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone are increasing and treatment failures have been reported. As a result, there is a critical need to develop novel strategies for mitigating the spread of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae through improved diagnosis and treatment of resistant infections. Strategies that are currently being pursued include developing molecular assays to predict resistance, utilizing higher doses of ceftriaxone, repurposing older antibiotics, and developing newer agents. In addition, efforts to discover a vaccine for N. gonorrhoeae have been reignited in recent years with the cross-protectivity provided by the N. meningitidis vaccine, with several new strategies and targets. Despite the significant progress that has been made, there is still much work ahead to combat antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae globally.

Emergence and genomic characterization of the ceftriaxone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428 clone in Chengdu, China

OBJECTIVES

To verify the contribution of the globally disseminated Neisseria gonorrhoeae FC428 clone to the emergence of ceftriaxone resistance in Chengdu in south-west China during 2018.

METHODS

Antimicrobial susceptibility of the N. gonorrhoeae isolates to six antibiotics was determined using the agar dilution method. A real-time PCR assay and WGS were used to identify the FC428 clone. Phylogenomic and molecular antimicrobial resistance analyses were conducted to characterize the transmission and evolution of related strains.

RESULTS

Four out of 112 N. gonorrhoeae isolates were confirmed as the ceftriaxone-resistant FC428 clone. Phylogenomic analysis revealed that they resulted from multiple introductions and subsequent local transmissions. The strains have undergone further evolutions characterized by the accumulation of mutations in resistance-associated genes and/or the acquisition of plasmids encoding penicillin and tetracycline resistance genes.

CONCLUSIONS

The N. gonorrhoeae FC428 clone has spread to south-west China. Efforts should be made to enhance gonococcal antimicrobial surveillance to control further dissemination of this successful clone at both local and national levels.

Phylogenomic analysis reveals persistence of gonococcal strains with reduced-susceptibility to extended-spectrum cephalosporins and mosaic penA-34

The recent emergence of strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae associated with treatment failures to ceftriaxone, the foundation of current treatment options, has raised concerns over a future of untreatable gonorrhea. Current global data on gonococcal strains suggest that several lineages, predominately characterized by mosaic penA alleles, are associated with elevated minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to extended spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs). Here we report on whole genome sequences of 813 N. gonorrhoeae isolates collected through the Gonococcal Isolate Surveillance Project in the United States. Phylogenomic analysis revealed that one persisting lineage (Clade A, multi-locus sequence type [MLST] ST1901) with mosaic penA-34 alleles, contained the majority of isolates with elevated MICs to ESCs. We provide evidence that an ancestor to the globally circulating MLST ST1901 clones potentially emerged around the early to mid-20th century (1944, credibility intervals [CI]: 1935-1953), predating the introduction of cephalosporins, but coinciding with the use of penicillin. Such results indicate that drugs with novel mechanisms of action are needed as these strains continue to persist and disseminate globally.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae Multivalent Maxibody with a Broad Spectrum of Strain Specificity and Sensitivity for Gonorrhea Diagnosis

Gonorrhea is one of the most common, but still hidden and insidious, sexually transmitted diseases caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococci). However, the diagnosis and treatment of gonorrhea are hampered by antigenic variability among gonococci, the lack of acquired immunity, and antimicrobial resistance. Further, strains resistant to cephalosporins, including ceftriaxone, the last line of defense, represent a growing threat, which prompted us to develop gonococci-specific diagnostic antibodies with broad-spectrum binding to gonococci strains to generate gonorrhea-detecting reagents. This study reports the identification of gonococci antibodies via bio-panning on gonococci cells using scFv-phage libraries. Reformatting the lead scFv-phage Clones 1 and 4 to a multivalent scFv1-Fc-scFv4 maxibody increased the sensitivity by up to 20-fold compared to the single scFv-Fc (maxibody) alone. Moreover, the multivalent maxibody showed broader cross-reactivity with clinical isolates and the ceftriaxone antibiotic-resistant World Health Organization (WHO) reference strain L. In contrast, the selected antibodies in the scFv-phage, maxibody, and multivalent maxibody did not bind to N. sicca, N. meningitides, and N. lactamica, suggesting the clinical and pharmaceutical diagnostic value of these selected antibodies for gonorrheal infections. The present study illustrates the advantages and potential application of multivalent maxibodies to develop rapid and sensitive diagnostic reagents for infectious diseases and cancer.

Targeted surveillance strategies for efficient detection of novel antibiotic resistance variants

Genotype-based diagnostics for antibiotic resistance represent a promising alternative to empiric therapy, reducing inappropriate antibiotic use. However, because such assays infer resistance based on known genetic markers, their utility will wane with the emergence of novel resistance. Maintenance of these diagnostics will therefore require surveillance to ensure early detection of novel resistance variants, but efficient strategies to do so remain undefined. We evaluate the efficiency of targeted sampling approaches informed by patient and pathogen characteristics in detecting antibiotic resistance and diagnostic escape variants in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a pathogen associated with a high burden of disease and antibiotic resistance and the development of genotype-based diagnostics. We show that patient characteristic-informed sampling is not a reliable strategy for efficient variant detection. In contrast, sampling informed by pathogen characteristics, such as genomic diversity and genomic background, is significantly more efficient than random sampling in identifying genetic variants associated with resistance and diagnostic escape.

Surveillance to maintain the sensitivity of genotype-based antibiotic resistance diagnostics

The sensitivity of genotype-based diagnostics that predict antimicrobial susceptibility is limited by the extent to which they detect genes and alleles that lead to resistance. As novel resistance variants are expected to emerge, such sensitivity is expected to decline unless the new variants are detected and incorporated into the diagnostic. Here, we present a mathematical framework to define how many diagnostic failures may be expected under varying surveillance regimes and thus quantify the surveillance needed to maintain the sensitivity of genotype-based diagnostics.