Decoding Proteus mirabilis biofilms: expression of selected virulence genes and association with antibiotic resistance
Abstract
Background: Proteus mirabilis is a uropathogens with a strong ability to form resilient crystalline biofilms, particularly on urinary catheters, contributing to its persistence and antibiotic resistance. As biofilm-driven virulence is key in complicated urinary tract infections, understanding its virulence genes and resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving treatment strategies. We investigated the presence, and expression of key virulence genes (ureC, mrpA, speA, and rsbA) in biofilm-forming P. mirabilis strains sourced from both urine (n = 26) and non-urine specimens, such as pus, wounds, and blood isolates (n = 26) and analyzed their association with antimicrobial resistance profiles. The presence and expression of P.mirabilis's virulence genes were detected using conventional PCR and Quantitative real-time PCR assays (qPCR), respectively. Antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer method, adhering to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using the R language.
Results: Virulence genes (ureC, mrpA, speA, and rsbA) exhibited high prevalence (> 92% in urine, > 84% in non-urine isolates) with no significant differences (Cochran's Q test; p = 0.801). Multidrug resistance (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) were detected in 100% and 57.69% of urine isolates, and 96.15% and 65.38% of non-urine isolates, respectively. Gene combinations are strongly linked to higher resistance…
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