Comprehensive Analysis of Imipenemase (IMP)-Type Metallo-β-Lactamase: A Global Distribution Threatening Asia

Antibiotic resistance, particularly beta-lactam resistance, is a major problem worldwide. Imipenemase or IMP-type metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) has become a more prominent enzyme, especially in Asia, since it was discovered in the 1990s in Japan. There are currently 88 variants of IMP-type enzymes. The most commonly identified variant of IMP-type enzymes is IMP-1 variant. IMP-type MBLs have been detected in more than ten species in Enterobacterales. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most frequent carrier of IMP-type enzymes worldwide. In Asia, IMP-type MBLs have been distributed in many countries. This work investigated a variety of currently available IMP-type MBLs at both a global level and a regional level. Out of 88 variants of IMP-type MBLs reported worldwide, only 32 variants were found to have susceptibility profiles. Most of the bacterial isolates carrying IMP-type MBLs were resistant to Carbapenems, especially Imipenem and Meropenem, followed by the 3rd-generation cephalosporins, and interestingly, monobactams. Our results comprehensively indicated the distribution of IMP-type MBLs in Asia and raised the awareness of the situation of antimicrobial resistance in the region.

Automated summary

Antibiotic resistance, especially beta-lactam resistance, is a significant problem worldwide. IMP-type metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) has become a prominent enzyme in Asia, with 88 variants currently identified. IMP-1 is the most common variant. IMP-type MBLs have been detected in multiple species, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being the most frequent carrier. The distribution of IMP-type MBLs in Asia has been observed in various countries. This study provides comprehensive insight into the global and regional prevalence of IMP-type MBLs, highlighting their resistance to carbapenems and third-generation cephalosporins.