BlaKPC13

BlaKPC13 is a bacterial lactamase enzyme that belongs to the class C beta-lactamase family. It was first identified in the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, hence the name "blaKPC13." This enzyme is responsible for the hydrolysis of beta-lactam antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat bacterial infections. The blaKPC13 gene is often found on mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids and transposons, allowing it to spread rapidly among bacterial populations.

BlaKPC13 is notable for its resistance to many beta-lactam antibiotics, including carbapenems, which are typically considered the last resort for treating severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. The enzyme's resistance profile has raised concerns about the potential for the spread of carbapenem-resistant bacteria, which can be difficult to treat and pose a significant public health threat.

Researchers have been studying blaKPC13 and other carbapenemase enzymes to better understand their mechanisms of action and to develop strategies to combat their spread. This includes efforts to identify new antibiotics that can inhibit these enzymes and to develop methods to limit the horizontal transfer of the genes encoding these enzymes.