The role of merA gene of mercury-resistant Escherichia coli from Kahayan River, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia in emerging antibiotic resistance

Abstract. Martani NS, Notobroto HB, Wasito EB, Jabal AR. 2022. The role of merA Gene Mercury-resistant Escherichia coli from Kahayan River, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia in emerging antibiotic resistance. Biodiversitas 23: 6629-6634. This study collected nine water samples the upstream, middle, and downstream parts river, which was heavily contaminated with mercury (Hg). sampled following collection method surface sample (SNI 6989.57-2008). has been found four out collected. gene bacteria identified at 1695 base pairs (bp), bla 199 bp, tet 494 cat 623 gyrA 577 bp. S1 PCR results 219 However, not amplified a primer measuring Then, sequencing performed, indicated 48.551% homology E. Tn5075 nucleotide sequences. On examination gene, all are positive, or target-specific bands observed (i.e., 1, 5, 6, 7). Following sequencing, bp were to have sequences that 100% identical coli. In samples, is either positive band corresponds target. Meanwhile, sequence 99.826% 586 No identified. Sample 1 plate 3, 4, 5 3 exhibited intermediate for ampicillin antibiotics, while remaining sensitive tested antibiotics. Therefore, mercury-resistant river Kalimantan conclusively linked