Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus)

Mycobacterium abscessus is a species of rapidly growing, multi-drug resistant nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) that represents a significant clinical challenge, particularly in patients with chronic lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis [1]. As an organism rather than a single molecular target, it possesses a complex cell wall rich in mycolic acids that provides a formidable barrier against many conventional antibiotics [2]. The bacterium is known for its ability to exist in both smooth and rough colonial variants, with the latter being associated with increased virulence and biofilm formation [3]. Therapeutic intervention typically targets various internal components of the bacteria, including the ribosomes and cell wall synthesis enzymes, yet treatment is often complicated by the presence of the erm(41) gene which confers inducible resistance to macrolides [4]. Consequently, management requires intensive, multi-drug regimens that are frequently limited by significant patient toxicity and high rates of treatment failure [5].

Other names

M. abscessus complexMycobacterium abscessus subsp. abscessusMycobacterium abscessus subsp. bolletiiMycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense

Inhibition of protein synthesis via 30S or 50S ribosomal subunits; inhibition of cell wall synthesis; inhibition of ATP synthase; disruption of membrane potential [3, 4].