Detection of Acrab, Tolc, Mdtk Genes and Biofilm Forming in Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Different Cases

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a clinically important opportunistic pathogen associated with a wide range of human infections. Its ability to develop multidrug resistance and form biofilms is largely mediated by efflux pump systems, which significantly limit the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of the efflux pump genes acrAB, TolC, and mdtK and to evaluate their association with biofilm formation in clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae. Materials and Methods: A total of 130 clinical samples were collected and cultured on selective media, followed by identification using standard biochemical tests and confirmation by 16S rRNA gene detection. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using standard methods. Biofilm formation was evaluated phenotypically, and the presence of efflux pump genes (acrAB, TolC, mdtK) was determined by molecular techniques. Results: Out of 130 clinical samples, 50 (38.4%) were identified as K. pneumoniae, with the highest isolation rate from urine samples (50%), followed by sputum (28%), wounds (12%), blood (6%), and burns (4%). The isolates exhibited high resistance rates to multiple antibiotics, including trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (78%), ciprofloxacin (68%), tobramycin (66%), and imipenem (64%). All isolates demonstrated biofilm-forming ability, with 62% classified as strong, 26% as moderate, and 12% as weak biofilm producers. Molecular analysis revealed that acrAB and TolC genes were present in 100% of isolates, while mdtK was detected in 70%. Conclusion: The widespread presence of efflux pump genes and strong biofilm-forming capacity among K. pneumoniae isolates likely plays a crucial role in their multidrug resistance and reduced susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics.