Overview

• Retrospective genomic analysis of nearly two million samples from six countries over 20 years confirms silent worldwide dissemination of npmA2 in human, animal and environmental bacteria.
• The gene resides within transposon Tn7734, which itself is embedded in integrative conjugative element Tn7740 to enable conjugation-like transfer among diverse microbes.
• Researchers documented cross-species transfers involving high-risk pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Clostridioides difficile and Enterococcus faecium.
• Laboratory tests indicate npmA2 imposes no measurable fitness cost on its bacterial hosts, facilitating long-term persistence and unchecked propagation.
• Experts emphasize the urgent need for integrated genomic surveillance and a One Health approach to track and curb the spread of this potent resistance mechanism.