Genomic characterization of Escherichia coli isolates from alpaca crias (Vicugna pacos) in the peruvian highlands: insights into functional diversity and pathogenicity

Diarrhea in alpaca crias significantly impacts livestock health in high-altitude regions, with Escherichia coli as a common pathogen. This study analyzed 10 E. coli isolates from diarrheic and healthy alpacas using whole-genome sequencing to assess genetic diversity, virulence factors, and antibiotic resistance. Predominant sequence types (ST73, ST29), serotypes (O22:H1, O109:H11), and phylogroups (B2, B1, A) were identified. Virulence profiling revealed ExPEC-like and EPEC pathotypes, while resistance genes for β-lactams (blaEC-15), fosfomycin (glpT_E448K), and colistin (pmrB) were prevalent. These findings highlight the need for genomic surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship to manage E. coli infections in alpacas and reduce public health risks.

Palabras clave

E. coli genetic diversity, antibiotic resistance in alpacas, virulence factors in alpaca pathogens, Diversidad genética de E. coli, resistencia a antibióticos en alpacas, factores de virulencia en patógenos de alpacas

Citación

Zapata, C., Rodriguez, L., Romero, Y., Coila, P., Hañari-Quispe, R. D., Oros, O., Zanabria, V., Quilcate, C., Rojas, D., Cruz, J., et al. (2025). Genomic characterization of Escherichia coli isolates from alpaca crias (Vicugna pacos) in the Peruvian Highlands: Insights into functional diversity and pathogenicity. Microorganisms, 13(7), 1533. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13071533