Novel probe-based melting curve assays for the characterization of fluoroquinolone resistance in Mycoplasma genitalium

Abstract

Background: Mycoplasma genitalium infection is a sexually transmitted infection that has rapidly become resistant to mainstay treatments. While individualized treatment approaches have been recommended and adopted for macrolides, individualized therapy for fluoroquinolones has not yet been explored, due to a lack of commercial molecular assays and a lack of confidence in specific mutations associated with resistance. In another recent study, we defined a clear role and diagnostic utility in focusing on the absence of resistance mutations to inform microbial cure with fluoroquinolone antimicrobials. Methods: We developed two proof-of-concept molecular tests that focus on detection of M. genit..