Transcriptional regulation of the mtrCDE efflux pump operon: importance for Neisseria gonorrhoeae antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

This review focuses on the mechanisms of transcriptional control of an important multidrug efflux pump system (MtrCDE) possessed by Neisseria gonorrhoeae , the aetiological agent of the sexually transmitted infection termed gonorrhoea. The mtrCDE operon that encodes this tripartite protein efflux pump is subject to both cis- and trans-acting transcriptional factors that negatively or positively influence expression. Critically, levels of MtrCDE can influence levels of gonococcal susceptibility to classical antibiotics, host-derived antimicrobials and various biocides. The regulatory systems that control mtrCDE can have profound influences on the capacity of gonococci to resist current and past antibiotic therapy regimens as well as virulence. The emergence, mechanisms of action and clinical significance of the transcriptional regulatory systems that impact mtrCDE expression in gonococci are reviewed here with the aim of linking bacterial antimicrobial resistance with multidrug efflux capability.

Efflux Pumps In Antimicrobial Resistance: Mechanism, Regulation And Therapeutic Implications

“…Oxygen availability can also influence efflux pump regulation. Anaerobic conditions, where oxygen is scarce, can lead to altered regulation of efflux pumps (Ayala et al, 2022). Bacteria in biofilms, which are microbial communities attached to surfaces, may exhibit different efflux pump expression patterns compared to planktonic (free-floating) bacteria.…”

Special collection to commemorate 40 years of antimicrobial efflux

“…Brown et al explore the presence of multidrug efflux pumps in bacteria inhabiting oil and gas environments, shedding light on their role in biocide tolerance and pipeline asset protection [5]. Meanwhile, a review by Ayala et al [6] delves into the transcriptional control of the RND efflux pump MtrCDE in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, underscoring its impact on antibiotic susceptibility and virulence of this important pathogen. Transcriptional regulation of RND pumps across pathogens tends to be controlled by a complex molecular network, which is often challenging to decipher.…”

“…Meanwhile, a review by Ayala et al . [ 6 ] delves into the transcriptional control of the RND efflux pump MtrCDE in Neisseria gonorrhoeae , underscoring its impact on antibiotic susceptibility and virulence of this important pathogen. Transcriptional regulation of RND pumps across pathogens tends to be controlled by a complex molecular network, which is often challenging to decipher.…”