Outer Membrane Vesicles Derived from Klebsiella pneumoniae Are a Driving Force for Horizontal Gene Transfer

Gram-negative bacteria release Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMVs) into the extracellular environment. Recent studies recognized these vesicles as vectors to horizontal gene transfer; however, parameters that mediate OMVs transfer within bacterial communities remain unclear. The present study highlights for first time of plasmids containing resistance genes via derived from Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae). This mechanism confers DNA protection, it is plasmid copy number dependent with a ratio 3.6 times among high (pGR) versus low (PRM), and transformation efficiency was greater. Therefore, amount in vesicular lumen efficacy strictly on identity plasmid. Moreover, role K. pneumoniae-OMVs interspecies described. ability not related phylogenetic characteristics between donor recipient species. transferred Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa Burkholderia cepacia. These findings address pivotal antimicrobial spread, contributing development antibiotic microbial communities.