# Comprehensive profiling of antibiotic resistance, virulence genes, and mobile genetic elements in the gut microbiome of Tibetan antelopes

## TL;DR

This study explores antibiotic resistance genes in the gut microbiome of Tibetan antelopes, revealing potential risks of resistance spread in high-altitude ecosystems.

## Contribution

The study provides the first comprehensive profiling of antibiotic resistance genes in Tibetan antelopes and identifies unique resistance genes not found in other species.

## Key findings

- 2,968 antibiotic resistance genes were identified, with elfamycin resistance being the most prevalent.
- ARGs were significantly correlated with virulence factor genes related to adherence and effector delivery systems.
- Seven antibiotic resistance genes were found uniquely in Tibetan antelopes compared to other plateau animals and humans.

## Abstract

Tibetan antelopes, native to high-altitude plateau regions, play an important role in the local ecosystem. Their gut harbors antimicrobial-resistant microbes, including potential pathogens. To explore this, we analyzed 33,925 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), including 7,318 from 68 Tibetan antelopes sequenced in our laboratory. We first profiled the composition of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and then examined their associations with virulence factor genes (VFGs). In total, 2,968 ARGs were identified, conferring resistance to 23 antibiotic classes, with elfamycin resistance being most prevalent. Two ARGs were located on phage-derived sequences, though their phage taxonomy could not be resolved. ARGs were significantly correlated with VFGs, particularly genes linked to adherence and effector delivery systems. Given potential dissemination risks, we further assessed associations between ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs), finding that insertion elements accounted for the largest number of ARG–MGE links. Comparative analysis with other plateau animals and humans revealed seven ARGs uniquely present in Tibetan antelopes. In summary, this study provides the first comprehensive overview of ARG composition in Tibetan antelope gut microbiomes, establishing a baseline for future hypothesis-driven studies and antimicrobial resistance surveillance in wildlife.

Investigating the drug resistance of Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii) gut microbiota serves as a critical biological indicator for assessing the impact of human activities (particularly antibiotic contamination) on the fragile ecosystem of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This study untangles the invasion of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) into remote conservation areas, suggesting that Tibetan antelopes may act as potential vectors for ARG dissemination across plateau environments. Such findings not only highlight threats to wildlife health but also provide an ecological warning regarding the pervasive environmental risks posed by the global antimicrobial resistance crisis in natural ecosystems.