Transferability of tigecycline resistance: Characterization of the expanding Tet(X) family

Abstract Tetracycline and its derivative tigecycline are clinical options against Gram‐negative bacterial infections. The emergence of mobile Tet(X) enzymes that destruct tetracycline‐type antibiotics is posing a big challenge to antibacterial therapy and food/environmental securities. Here, we present an update on a growing number of Tet(X) variants. We describe structure and action of Tet(X) enzyme, and discuss the evolutional origin. In addition, potential Tet(X) inhibitors are given. This mini‐review might benefit better understanding of Tet(X)‐mediated tigecycline resistance. This article is categorized under: Infectious Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology