Effect of Conjugation between Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli on Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is always connected with Escherichia coli bacteria; Antibiotic resistance in these bacteria is an unlimited threat in treating UTI. Plasmids are extrachromosomal elements for medically important characters, such as antibiotic resistance, in addition to be the main way of horizontal gene transfer of the in bacteria. The study involved isolating and characterizing bacterial strains using Methylene Blue (EMB) and MacConkey agar, revealing pink colonies of E. coli indicative of lactose fermentation. Biochemical tests showed fermentation of glucose, lactose, and sucrose, with positive results for indole and methyl red, while being negative for Voges-Proskauer and citrate utilization. E. coli, a common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs), poses challenges due to unidentified genetic factors affecting pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance genes found on plasmids. Meanwhile, Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates displayed beta-hemolysis and pigment production. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests indicated that E. coli was highly sensitive to several antibiotics, whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa was resistant to ciprofloxacin but sensitive to others. The recommended treatment for uncomplicated cystitis includes nitrofurantoin and fosfomycin, with ciprofloxacin reserved for severe infections. Conjugation experiments confirmed the transfer of ciprofloxacin resistance genes, suggesting their presence on conjugative plasmids.