Rapid multiplex polymerase chain reaction for detection of mcr-1 to mcr-5 genes

A rapid (total time <2 h) and reliable multiplex polymerase chain reaction for screening of mcr-1 to mcr-5 genes conferring resistance to colistin has been developed. This technique has been tested on a collection of isolates previously identified as bearing mcr-1, mcr-2, and mcr-like genes and had a sensitivity and a specificity of 100%. Using this method, we were also able to identify a single isolate possessing both mcr-1 and mcr-5 genes.