Gosset Molecular Classification
Bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria
Other Names
Uropathogens, Urinary Tract Infection Bacteria, Bacteria causing UTIs
Disease Roles
Bacteria in the Urinary Tract Overview
Bacteria in the urinary tract, primarily Gram-negative rods like Escherichia coli, are the main cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs). These bacteria utilize specific adhesins and receptors, such as uroplakins, to colonize the urinary tract and establish infection. Other common causative agents include Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterococcus faecalis. Treatment strategies mainly revolve around antibiotics, but increasing antibiotic resistance poses a significant challenge.
Mechanism of Action
Various, depending on the antibiotic. Includes inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis, DNA replication, protein synthesis, or folate synthesis.
Biological Functions
Adhesion to host cells
Colonization of urinary tract
Biofilm formation
Urease production
Invasion of urinary tract tissues
Disease Associations
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Cystitis
Pyelonephritis
Urethritis
Complicated UTIs
Uncomplicated UTIs
Safety Considerations
- Antibiotic resistance
- Collateral damage to microbiome
- Adverse drug reactions
- Clostridium difficile infection
Interacting Drugs
Antibiotics (e.g., Fluoroquinolones, Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole, Nitrofurantoin, Cephalosporins)
Urinary antiseptics
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| Bacterial load in urine |
| White blood cells in urine |
| Nitrites in urine |
| Leukocyte esterase in urine |