مقالات پذیرفته شده در نهمین کنگره بین المللی زیست پزشکی
A Review on the Genes Involved in the Pathogenicity of Gram-Negative Bacteria Causing Bacteremia in Hospitalized Children
A Review on the Genes Involved in the Pathogenicity of Gram-Negative Bacteria Causing Bacteremia in Hospitalized Children
Azita Zarabian,1Sara Sardashti,2Yasna Azizpour,3,*
1. Department of Biology, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. 2. Department of Biology, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. 3. Department of Biology, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
Introduction: Bacteremia, the presence of viable bacteria in the bloodstream, represents a critical medical emergency, especially among hospitalized children. Neonates and immunocompromised pediatric patients are particularly susceptible due to their immature or compromised immune systems. If left untreated, bacteremia can progress rapidly to sepsis and multi-organ failure.
This review aims to investigate and summarize the key virulence genes associated with the pathogenicity of Gram-negative bacteria frequently implicated in pediatric bloodstream infections. The focus is placed on Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Methods: A comprehensive literature-based review was conducted by analyzing data from clinical and molecular studies. Priority was given to virulence factors facilitating host colonization, immune evasion, and disease severity. The genes examined include hly, cnf, traT, and ompT in E. coli; magA, iroN, entB, and rmpA in K. pneumoniae; and plcH, lasA, lasB, and toxA in P. aeruginosa.
Results: These virulence genes are involved in essential mechanisms such as capsule formation, siderophore-mediated iron acquisition, toxin production, outer membrane resistance, and biofilm formation. Their expression not only enhances bacterial survival in the bloodstream but also contributes to antimicrobial resistance and correlates with increased morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients.
Conclusion: A deeper understanding of the molecular basis of bacterial virulence in pediatric bacteremia is essential for early diagnosis, risk stratification, and the development of effective, targeted therapies. Routine molecular surveillance of virulence genes in clinical isolates may significantly enhance diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes, particularly in high-risk hospital settings.