Deciphering Teixobactin Resistance Mechanisms in Enterococcus faecalis Through Integrated RNA-seq and Hub Genes Identification

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe and pressing global health crisis, necessitating urgent innovative approaches to combat drug-resistant bacteria. This study investigates the genetic underpinnings of resistance in Enterococcus faecalis., a Gram-positive bacterium, in response to the novel antibiotic Teixobactin. Leveraging whole transcriptome RNA-seq analysis and sophisticated bioinformatics tools, we have identified ten central hub genes: guaA, guaB, lepA, der, secA, ftsH, obg, nusG, dnaA, and ffh. These genes display significant upregulation and robust interactions within the bacterial genome. Our comprehensive analysis uncovers the involvement of these genes in diverse critical cellular functions associated with antibiotic resistance. These functions encompass purine metabolism, protein export, stress response, transcriptional regulation, and ribosomal activities. These findings provide crucial insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms underpinning Enterococcus faecalis resistance to Teixobactin. Furthermore, potential targets were identified for the development of advanced antibiotics, aligning with the ongoing global efforts against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), these identified hub genes offer promising avenues for novel drug discovery, bolstering the ongoing crusade against drug-resistant bacterial infections.