Class 1 Integron Containing Metallo-β-Lactamase Gene <i>bla</i> _VIM-2 in <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> Clinical Strains Isolated in Japan

Abstract

Four bla(VIM-2) gene-harboring Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were identified. These strains possessed a class 1 integron harboring ORF1, bla(VIM-2), and aacA4 gene cassettes. The transposon-mediated horizontal spread of the bla(VIM-2) gene among these strains was suggested, which increases the threat that the bla(VIM-2) gene will disseminate among diverse genera of bacteria.