Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC)

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a specialized pathotype of the bacterium *Escherichia coli* that is the primary causative agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs), responsible for 80–90% of community-acquired cases. UPEC possesses unique virulence factors enabling it to colonize, invade, and persist within the urinary tract, leading to a range of clinical manifestations from mild cystitis to severe pyelonephritis and urosepsis. A major clinical challenge is rising antibiotic resistance, complicating treatment options.

Other names

UPECUrinary Tract Infection-causing E. coli

Varies depending on the antibiotic or therapy. Beta-lactams inhibit cell wall synthesis. Phage therapy uses bacteriophages to infect and lyse bacteria. Nanomaterials may disrupt bacterial membranes or deliver antimicrobial agents.