Multiplex PCR for detection of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance qnr genes in ESBL-producing enterobacterial isolates

To develop a rapid and reliable single-tube-based PCR technique for detecting simultaneously the plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance qnrA, qnrB and qnrS genes.

After multiple alignments, primers were designed to detect known qnr variants (six for qnrA-, six for qnrB- and two for qnrS-like genes). They were used for screening a collection of 64 expanded-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing enterobacterial isolates from Kuwait, collected from 2002 to 2004, as ESBL genes have been often associated with qnr genes. Sequencing was performed to identify qnr and associated ESBL genes.