Detection and characterization of potentially hybrid enteroaggregative Escherichia coli(EAEC) strains isolated from urinary tract infection

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Title: Detection and characterization of potentially hybrid enteroaggregative Escherichia coli(EAEC) strains isolated from urinary tract infection
Authors: Moazeni, Shima, Askari Badouei, Mahdi, Hashemitabar, Gholamreza, Rezatofighi, Seyedeh Elham, Mahmoodi, Fahimeh
Source: Brazilian Journal of Microbiology; 20230101, Issue: Preprints p1-9, 9p
Abstract: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli(UPEC) have the potential to receive the virulence markers of intestinal pathotypes and transform into various important hybrid pathotypes. This study aimed to investigate the frequency and characteristics of hybrid enteroaggregative E. coli(EAEC)/UPEC strains. Out of 202 UPEC strains, nine (4.5%) were detected as hybrid EAEC/UPEC. These strains carried one to four iron uptake systems. Among nine investigated pathogenicity islands (PAIs), PAI IV536, PAI II536, and PAI ICFT073were found in 9 (100%), 3 (33.3%), and 1 (11.1%) strains, respectively. The chuAand sitAgenes were detected in 5 (55.5%) and 3 (33.3%) hybrid strains, respectively. Six hybrid strains were found to be typical extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli(ExPEC) according to their virulence traits. Most of the hybrid strains belonged to the phylogenetic group E (6/9). Among the hybrid strains, seven (7/9) were able to form biofilm and adhere to cells; however, only two strains penetrated into the HeLa cells. Our findings reveal some of the virulence characteristics of hybrid strains that lead to fitness and infection in the urinary tract. These strains, with virulence factors of intestinal and non-intestinal pathotypes, may become emerging pathogens in clinical settings; therefore, further studies are needed to reveal their pathogenicity mechanisms and so that preventive measures can be taken.
Database: Supplemental Index
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ISSN:15178382
16784405
DOI:10.1007/s42770-023-01195-9
Published in:Brazilian Journal of Microbiology
Language:English