Comprehensive analysis of antibiotic and heavy metal resistance, and virulence factors in Aeromonas veronii CTe-01: Implications for global antimicrobial resistance

• Tellurite resistance in A. veronii : First report of tellurite resistance in Aeromonas veronii , isolated from a wastewater treatment plant. • Antibiotic resistance profile: A. veronii CTe-01 exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotics, including penicillin, ampicillin, and erythromycin. • Genomic analysis: Comprehensive genomic analysis reveals the presence of beta-lactamases, heavy metal resistance genes, and a functional type III secretion system. • Dual role in the environment: A. veronii CTe-01 shows potential as both a pathogen and a heavy metal remediator in aquatic environments. • Novel findings: Identification of novel genes and molecular mechanisms contributing to antibiotic and heavy metal resistance in A. veronii . This study aimed to characterize Aeromonas veronii CTe-01 focusing on its resistance to heavy metal and antibiotics. A. veronii CTe-01 was characterized using standard microbiological and molecular techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility and heavy metal resistance were tested per standard protocols. Genomic analysis, including plasmid characterization, was conducted in silico. A. veronii CTe-01 showed resistance to various heavy metals and antibiotics. Multiple resistance genes were identified, including those for beta-lactamases, heavy metal resistance, and type III secretion system components. The bacterium carries a 9 kb plasmid with repA/repB replication genes, parA/parB partitioning genes, and a type II toxin-antitoxin system for stability. A. veronii CTe-01 is a genetic reservoir for antibiotic resistance, heavy metal resistance genes, and virulence factors. The study offers insights into its dual role as a pathogen and heavy metal remediator in aquatic environments.