Integrated conjugative elements drive the formation of pandemic clones of Escherichia coli with hybrid chromosomes
Pathogenic bacteria with hybrid chromosomes have emerged as a significant global healthcare threat. The underlying molecular mechanisms of their formation are not understood. Unmodified clinical isolates of Escherichia coli were screened as potential donors of chromosomal DNA to laboratory recipients and were found to produce hybrids. The resulting hybrids were sequenced and analysed, and individual mobile genetic elements from clinical strains were screened as potential drivers of hybrid formation.