Comprehensive genomic characterization of extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from neonates: multiple center insights into virulence, resistance, and transmission dynamics.

Genomic analysis of 411 neonatal ExPEC strains reveals widespread virulence and resistance genes, with ST1193 and O75 being the most prevalent types across China.

• Why it matters: Understanding the genetic diversity and transmission mechanisms of neonatal ExPEC is crucial for developing targeted interventions to reduce severe infections and long-term health impacts in newborns.
• What they did: Whole-genome sequencing of strains from nine centers was combined with phylogenetic, pan-genomic, and bioinformatics analyses to identify population structure, virulence factors, resistance genes, and mobile genetic elements.
• The result: Findings show extensive distribution of virulence and resistance genes, with plasmids playing a key role in gene co-occurrence and transmission, informing strategies for managing neonatal ExPEC infections.