• Evaluation of molecular Macrolide Resistance mechanisms in strains of Viridans Group Streptococci isolated from Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
  • Kiyarah Shojaei,1,*
    1. Islamic Azad University North Tehran Branch


  • Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) encompass bladder infections (cystitis), kidney infections (pyelonephritis), and bloodstream infections (urosepsis), alongside asymptomatic colonization. UTIs are reported as the third most common type of infection worldwide, following respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, and the second most common in developed countries. In most cases, UTIs are uncomplicated. However, due to potential recurrences and the possibility of disease progression, infections can lead to pyelonephritis or septicemia, kidney damage, and even premature labor in pregnant women, significantly impacting health. Globally, approximately 150 million people are diagnosed with UTIs annually, incurring over $5 billion in treatment costs worldwide. Early treatment of UTIs prevents complications and reduces long-term consequences. The lack of effective treatment and diagnosis for these infections is a serious healthcare concern. Therefore, identifying the causative pathogen in UTIs and assessing drug resistance can guide antibiotic therapy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of this resistance is crucial for developing new treatment strategies and combating the spread of antibiotic resistance. Viridans group streptococci are common bacteria found in the normal human flora that can become pathogenic under certain conditions. Antibiotic resistance in these bacteria is a serious problem that can have severe consequences for disease treatment. Based on existing studies and reviews, this research is the first to investigate macrolide antibiotic resistance patterns in Viridans group streptococci isolates from urinary tract infections. Evaluating the ermB and mefA genes, which play key roles in resistance mechanisms, can provide valuable information about the pathogenesis of these bacteria. The information obtained can be useful in developing policies for controlling and preventing antibiotic resistance. Increased drug resistance is one of the major challenges in medicine, and UTIs, as a significant health problem, are prevalent worldwide. This study has gained importance in recent years due to the increasing prevalence of resistant strains. The samples for this study are isolates from patients with urinary tract infections. Additionally, efforts are being made to identify the emergence of bacterial strains exhibiting multidrug resistance to antibiotics. By conducting this study, we hope to contribute to the treatment of patients with UTIs and play our part in preventing the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
  • Methods: sampling-Microscopic examination- Biochemical tests-culture- Library studies
  • Results: In a study examining the molecular mechanisms of macrolide resistance among viridans group streptococcal isolates from urinary tract infections (UTIs), an increased resistance to the antibiotic's erythromycin, clindamycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin was observed. Investigating the relationship between the prevalence of ermB and mefA genes and the occurrence of macrolide resistance can contribute to the development of targeted treatment strategies for UTIs caused by viridans group streptococci. Consequently, this understanding can lead to potential therapeutic and infection control solutions. Given the knowledge of these resistance mechanisms, consulting a specialist physician is beneficial for prescribing appropriate medications to treat and eradicate UTIs caused by viridans group streptococci, and for considering alternative treatment regimens.
  • Conclusion: Viridans Group Streptococci and Antibiotic Resistance Viridans group streptococci (VGS) are common bacteria found in the normal human flora, but they can become pathogenic under specific conditions. Antibiotic resistance in these bacteria is a serious concern, potentially leading to severe consequences in disease treatment. Research Significance and Focus Based on the studies and reviews conducted for this research, this is the first study to investigate macrolide antibiotic resistance patterns in viridans group streptococci isolates from urinary tract infections (UTIs). Evaluating the ermB and mefA genes, which play a key role in resistance mechanisms, can provide valuable information regarding the pathogenesis of these bacteria. The insights gained from this research can be beneficial in developing strategies for controlling and preventing antibiotic resistance. Let me know if you'd like me to translate anything else!
  • Keywords: macrolide-Urinary tract infections (UTIs) -Viridans Group Streptococci-antibiotic's