IN VITRO BIOFILM PRODUCTION AND VIRULENCE FACTORS OF UROPATHOGENIC ESCHERICHIA COLI

Abstract

The aim of the study is to assess in vitro biofilm production and other virulence factors in uropathogenic E.coli (UPEC) and correlate with drug susceptibility. Materials and methods The study include 300 uropathogenic E.coli strains collected from patients with significant bacteriuria. Biofilm production was quantified by modified Christensen’s method. All the strains were tested for virulence factors like proteinase production, extended spectrum beta lactamase production, haemolysin production, mannose resistant haemagglutination and antibiotic sensitivity. Results: Out of the 300  strains, 265(67%) were in vitro biofilm producers, multiple drug resistance were more common among strong biofilm producing strains of Uropathogenic E.coli. Among the isolates 5% were positive for proteinase, 30% of the  produced haemolysin and 71% were positive for mannose resistant haemagglutination. The anti-biogram was as follows, 35% strains were sensitive to Gentamicin and Norfloxacin; 34% sensitive to Co-trimoxazole; 84% were sensitive to Amoxyclav; 87% to Nitrofurantoin; 38% were sensitive to Ceftazidime and cefotaxime; 85% sensitive to Amikacin and 100% to Imipenem respectively.  56% produced extended spectrum beta lactamase. Conclusion The study shows that the ability to produce biofilm varies among strains of uropathogenic E.coli and multidrug resistance is more prevalent among strong biofilm producers. Mannose resistant haemagglutinating fimbria has a role in biofilm formation. ESBL.production is prevalent among uropathogenic E.coli.