GENETIC DIVERSITY AND EPIDEMIOLOGY OF DRUG-RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS

This study investigates the genetic diversity and epidemiological characteristics of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR/XDR-TB) strains circulating in high-burden regions. A total of 400 clinical isolates were analyzed using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to determine resistance-associated mutations and phylogenetic lineages. Results revealed significant genetic heterogeneity, with dominant lineages including Beijing (61%), LAM (20%), and CAS (12%). Mutations in katG, rpoB, gyrA, and rrl were the most prevalent. Epidemiological data showed strong associations between strain types, drug resistance profiles, and regional distribution. The findings highlight the importance of combining molecular and epidemiological surveillance to guide TB control strategies and personalized treatment approaches.