The Metabolome of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection in Plasma

AIM: Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae- (CR-Kp-) mediated infections represent a challenge for clinical practitioners due to their expanding prevalence in hospital environments and antibiotic resistance. However, few studies have shown metabolic changes of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and CR-Kp-negative patients, and relevant studies are urgently needed. METHODS: In this study, we comprehensively profile the metabolites of 20 CR-Kp-positive and 18 CR-Kp-negative patients in plasma by using 2D gas chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). RESULTS: We identified 58 metabolites that were carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae-associated. N-Acetyl glucosamine, butanedioic acid, and myoinositol play a significant character in CR-Kp infection. CONCLUSIONS: Our study provides valuable data to serve as potential targets for developing therapies against CR-Kp infection.