Prevalence and diversity of IncX plasmids carrying fluoroquinolone and β-lactam resistance genes in<i>Escherichia coli</i>originating from diverse sources and geographical areas

Abstract

IncX plasmids were widely distributed in E. coli from wildlife in Europe and were predominantly associated with fluoroquinolone resistance genes. Plasmids showing indistinguishable restriction profiles were identified in E. coli from different sources and countries suggesting wide dissemination of certain plasmid lineages.