Serological response to the P fimbriae of uropathogenic Escherichia coli in pyelonephritis
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Abstract:
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains isolated from four patients with pyelonephritis were characterized by their O:K serotype, hemolysin production, mannose-resistant hemagglutination, and the serotype of the P fimbriae. These P fimbriae were serotyped with specific monoclonal antibodies. Serum samples from the patients were analyzed for the presence of specific antibodies to the P fimbriae. In all cases antifimbrial antibodies were found, strongly suggesting that these P fimbriae are expressed in vivo. However, the antibodies in the patient sera were not able to inhibit the mannose-resistant hemagglutination. This finding suggests that these antibodies react with the fimbrial components and not with the minor components which are responsible for adhesion.
Insights
Uropathogenic E. coli P fimbriae are expressed in vivo during pyelonephritis. Patient antibodies target fimbriae but do not inhibit adhesion, suggesting they bind to structural components rather than adhesive elements.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Urology
Background:
- Pyelonephritis is a severe kidney infection often caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC).
- P fimbriae are key virulence factors in UPEC, mediating adhesion to host tissues.
- Understanding the in vivo expression and host immune response to P fimbriae is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize UPEC strains from pyelonephritis patients.
- To investigate the in vivo expression of P fimbriae during infection.
- To determine the host antibody response to P fimbriae and its functional implications.
Main Methods:
- Serotyping of O:K antigens and P fimbriae using monoclonal antibodies.
- Assays for hemolysin production and mannose-resistant hemagglutination.
- Detection of patient antibodies against P fimbriae in serum samples.
Main Results:
- All UPEC strains possessed P fimbriae, which were expressed in vivo as evidenced by the presence of specific antibodies in patient sera.
- Patient antibodies recognized P fimbrial components but did not inhibit mannose-resistant hemagglutination.
- This suggests antibodies target structural fimbrial elements, not the adhesive components responsible for initial attachment.
Conclusions:
- P fimbriae are expressed during human pyelonephritis, eliciting a host antibody response.
- The observed antibody response does not neutralize P fimbriae-mediated adhesion, indicating a potential limitation of the host immune defense.
- Further research is needed to explore therapeutic strategies targeting the adhesive function of P fimbriae.