Detection of virulence genes among Staphylococcus saprophyticus isolated from women with urinary tract infections: first report from Iran

• Published in: BMC research notes 2023-09, Vol.16 (1), p.1-6, Article 206
• Main Authors: Rafiee, Maryam, Ghaemi, Ezzat Allah
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analysis; Bacteria; Bacterial genetics; Bacterial infections; Biochemical characteristics; Biofilm; Biofilms; Bladder; Care and treatment; Clinical isolates; Complications and side effects; Demographic aspects; Diagnosis; Drug resistance; Erythrocytes; Genes; Genetic aspects; Gentian violet; Health aspects; Hemagglutination; Pathogenicity; Polymerase chain reaction; Proteins; Research Note; Staphylococcal infections; Staphylococcus saprophyticus; Therapeutic applications; Urinary tract; Urinary tract diseases; Urinary tract infections; Urogenital system; Virulence; Virulence (Microbiology); Women
• ISSN: 1756-0500; 1756-0500
• DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06481-1

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the biofilm production, and the presence of virulence genes and biochemical characteristics among the S. saprophyticus clinical isolates. A total of 35 clinical isolates of S. saprophyticus were collected from patients referred to several hospitals. By the crystal violet staining method, the capability of biofilm formation was performed. The genes associated with surface of S. saprophyticus were investigated by the PCR-sequencing techniques. Hemagglutination and lipase activity assays were also performed. The results of crystal violet staining assay showed that 32 isolates (91%) form biofilm. Moreover, seven (20%), 13 (37%), and 12(34%) isolates were categorized as weak, moderate, and strong biofilm producers, respectively. virulence genes including UafA, Aas and Ssp had an overall prevalence of 88%, 91% and 80%, respectively. None of the isolates exhibited lipolytic activities. Regarding hemagglutination properties, only 11 (31%) isolates demonstrated hemagglutination of sheep erythrocytes. The results of this study indicate a high prevalence of UafA and Aas genes that can enhance the pathogenicity of S. saprophyticus, and Identification and better understanding of the functions of these genes can be used for therapeutic purposes. Maybe in the future we will be switch to anti-adhesion therapy because of drug resistance.