Impact of Quorum Sensing Genes (smaI, EsaI) and Pili Gene (HpaA) on P.agglomerans Infections: Correlation with Elevated IL-6 Levels in Affected Patients

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to analyze the quorum sensing genes (smaI, EsaI) and the pili gene (HpaA) that is associated with pathogenesis of Pantoea agglomerans infections, Its focus is on the relationship of the studied genes with increased levels of IL-6 in infected patients. Five hospitals in Karbala provided a total of 300 patients varying in age and including both genders for this study. Five milliliters of blood were collected for immunological and molecular testing. The identification of Pantoea species was performed by the VITEK-2 compact system. Genomic DNA from bacterial cells was extracted for PCR analysis of specific genes (smaI, EsaI and HpaA) to confirm virulence factors. DNA concentration and purity were determined with a Nanodrop spectrophotometer. The PCR process was optimized, and IL-6 was quantified by use of an ELISA kit. In this study on 300 clinical specimens, 79.33% exhibited positive bacterial growth, with 37 of these being Pantoea species. Among the Pantoea isolates, 81.09% were identified as P. agglomerans. The isolates were characterized for their biochemistry and carbohydrate fermentation abilities. Genetic analysis showed that 93.3% of P.agglomerans isolates had the Smal gene, 86.63% had the Esal gene and only 33.3% had the HpaA gene, showing variation in virulence factors. Patients infected with P.agglomerans also exhibited higher IL-6 levels. This further suggests an immune modulation role of P. agglomerans. Conclusion: P.agglomerans isolates have significant genetic variation in virulence factors and may be involved in immunomodulation as the infected patient showed elevated levels of IL-6.