Virulence characterization and clonal analysis of uropathogenic Escherichia coli metallo-beta-lactamase-producing isolates

Abstract Background Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a major cause of urinary tract infection (UTI); however, treatment UTI has been challenging due to increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR). One the most important types AMR carbapenem (CR). CR bacteria are known as an threat global public health today. Class B metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) one factors for against carbapenems. We aimed investigate characteristics UPEC isolates producing MBL. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2018 December 2019 in Ahvaz; Iran. were identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Metallo-beta-lactamase-producing detected using modified inactivation method (mCIM) EDTA-CIM (eCIM) tests. MBL genes, phylogenetic group, virulence genes profile resistant determined. Conjugation assay plasmid profiling evaluate ability transferring other E. isolates. Clonal similarity assessed Enterobacterial intergenic repetitive element sequence (ERIC)-PCR. Results Among 406 isolates, 12 (2.95%) carbapenem-resistant which 11 phenotypically MBL-producing strains. Four all investigated agents considered possible pandrug-resistant (PDR). bla NDM , OXA-48 IMP-1 IMP-2 found 9, 5, 1, 1 respectively. 30 investigated, traT, fyuA followed fimH iutA with frequency 8 (66.7%), 7 (58.3%), (58.3%) Siderophore production main trait among Except two, showed weak moderate index. In recovered readily transmitted via plasmids during conjugation experiments. Conclusion carbapenemase especially spreading rapidly bacteria, can be health. Therefore monitoring emergence dissemination new necessary continuously refine guidelines empiric therapy. Understanding mechanisms this group play effective role providing therapeutic