Evaluation of biofilm activity, virulence genes, and antibiotic susceptibility profiles in clinical Proteus mirabilis isolates

Introduction

Proteus mirabilis is a common opportunistic pathogen in wound and urinary tract infections (UTIs), whose clinical significance is driven by biofilm formation. This virulence-mediated process provides a shield against antimicrobials and host immunity, promoting difficult-to-treat infections. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between biofilm-forming capacity, presence of virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance profiles in P. mirabilis isolates. Methodology: A total of 76 P. mirabilis isolates from urine and wound samples were analyzed. Isolates were identified using MALDI-TOF MS, antimicrobial susceptibility was tested via VITEK®2, biofilm formation was measured using the crystal violet method, and the presence of virulence genes (ureC, ireA, zapA, rsbA, flaA, atfA, ucaA, and hpmA) was analyzed by PCR.