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Establishment and Characterization of UTI and CAUTI in a Mouse Model
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Copper affects virulence and diverse phenotypes of uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis

Wei-Syuan Huang1, Yuan-Ju Lee2, Lu Wang1

  • 1Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.

Journal of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infection = Wei Mian Yu Gan Ran Za Zhi
|March 7, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Copper impacts urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Proteus mirabilis. This study reveals copper

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Bacterial Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, with Proteus mirabilis being a significant pathogen.
  • Urinary copper levels increase during P. mirabilis UTIs, suggesting a role for copper in infection dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of copper on uropathogenic P. mirabilis.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms by which copper influences bacterial virulence and fitness.

Main Methods:

  • In vivo mouse colonization models and in vitro assays were employed.
  • Methods included swarming/swimming, urease activity, adhesion/invasion, biofilm formation, and macrophage killing assays.
  • Gene expression, outer membrane protein analysis, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were also performed.

Main Results:

  • Sublethal copper levels reduced P. mirabilis colonization, swarming, urease activity, and adhesion, while increasing macrophage susceptibility.
  • Conversely, copper enhanced biofilm formation and oxidative stress resistance.
  • Copper increased antibiotic minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and persister cell formation, and modulated outer membrane proteins and RcsB expression.

Conclusions:

  • Copper exhibits pleiotropic effects on P. mirabilis, influencing both virulence and fitness.
  • Copper-mediated changes in bacterial behavior highlight its importance in P. mirabilis pathogenesis.
  • Findings support the development of copper-based strategies for preventing and treating P. mirabilis UTIs.
Keywords:
CopperUropathogenic P. mirabilisVirulence

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