Mutant prevention concentrations, resistance evolution dynamics, and mechanisms of resistance to imipenem and imipenem/relebactam in carbapenem-susceptible isolates showing ceftazidime/avibactam resistance.

carbapenemase (KPC) variants selected during ceftazidime/avibactam treatment usually develop susceptibility to carbapenems and carbapenem/β-lactamase inhibitors, such as imipenem and imipenem/relebactam. We analyzed imipenem and imipenem/relebactam single-step mutant frequencies, resistance development trajectories and differentially selected resistance mechanisms using two representative isolates that had developed ceftazidime/avibactam resistance during therapy (ST512/KPC-31 and ST258/KPC-35). Mutant frequencies and mutant prevention concentrations were measured in Mueller-Hinton agar plates containing incremental concentrations of imipenem or imipenem/relebactam.

In vitro development of imipenem/relebactam resistance in KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae involves multiple mutations including OmpK36 disruption and KPC modification.

Objectives: In order to inform and anticipate potential strategies aimed at combating KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae infections, we analysed imipenem/relebactam and ceftazidime/avibactam single-step mutant frequencies, resistance development trajectories, differentially selected resistance mechanisms and their associated fitness cost using four representative high-risk K. pneumoniae clones.

Methods: Mutant frequencies and mutant preventive concentrations were determined using agar plates containing incremental concentrations of β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor.