The FimH Gene in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Strains Isolated From Patients With Urinary Tract Infection

BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of main health problems caused by many microorganisms, including uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). UPEC strains are the most frequent pathogens responsible for 85% and 50% of community and hospital acquired UTIs, respectively. UPEC strains have special virulence factors, including type 1 fimbriae, which can result in worsening of UTIs. OBJECTIVES: This study was performed to detect type 1 fimbriae (the FimH gene) among UPEC strains by molecular method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 140 isolated E. coli strains from patients with UTI were identified using biochemical tests and then evaluated for the FimH gene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. RESULTS: The UPEC isolates were identified using biochemical tests and were screened by PCR. The fimH gene was amplified using specific primers and showed a band about 164 bp. The FimH gene was found in 130 isolates (92.8%) of the UPEC strains. Of 130 isolates positive for the FimH gene, 62 (47.7%) and 68 (52.3%) belonged to hospitalized patients and outpatients, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicated that more than 90% of E. coli isolates harbored the FimH gene. The high binding ability of FimH could result in the increased pathogenicity of E. coli; thus, FimH could be used as a possible diagnostic marker and/or vaccine candidate.