Genetic Variability of Uropathogenic Strains of Klebsiella Pneumoniae in Diabetic Women

Abstract

Objective: To study the  genetic variability of uropathogenic strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae in diabetic patients.

Materials and methods: Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated  from five diabetic patients with UTI were collected and transported to laboratory and tentatively confirmed through various  morphological, biochemical and plating techniques using standard procedures.  Plasmid DNA was then isolated from all strains and subjected to RFLP analysis after  restriction digestion with BamH1.

Results: All the strains were found to be morphologically similar and capable of utilizing glucose. Biochemical analysis revealed that the five strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae were positive for catalase and indole test and negative for MP-VP coagulase, H₂S production and gas production. RFLP pattern of five  Klebsiella pneumoniae stains revealed the existence of 4 distinct clones.

Conclusion: The above findings in the present study suggest the possibility of emergence of new strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae.