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Visualization of Proteus mirabilis within the matrix of urease-induced bladder stones during experimental urinary

Xin Li1, Hui Zhao, C Virginia Lockatell

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.

Infection and Immunity
|December 19, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis causes severe urinary tract infections, especially in catheterized mice. A urease-negative mutant showed reduced virulence, highlighting urease

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Urology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis is a significant cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  • Urease production by P. mirabilis is a key factor in UTI pathogenesis, contributing to stone formation and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the virulence of a urease-negative mutant of P. mirabilis compared to its wild-type strain.
  • To investigate the role of urease in P. mirabilis-induced urolithiasis and kidney colonization in a mouse model.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a CBA mouse model of catheterized urinary tract infection.
  • Assessed bacterial colonization, urolithiasis, and kidney infection.
  • Employed confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Alizarin red S staining.

Main Results:

  • Catheterized mice were significantly more susceptible to wild-type P. mirabilis infection.
  • The urease-negative mutant colonized bladders but did not cause urolithiasis.
  • The mutant exhibited significantly attenuated virulence in ascending to the kidneys.
  • P. mirabilis was observed within urease-induced stone matrix, and calcium deposits were detected in infected tissues.

Conclusions:

  • Urease is critical for P. mirabilis virulence, urolithiasis, and kidney infection.
  • The urease-negative mutant is attenuated, offering potential insights into therapeutic strategies.

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