Simultaneous detection of arpA, chuA, TspE4C2, and yjaA genes in UTI-associated Escherichia coli using PCR

Background: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the primary cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans, but current detection methods require hours to days, limiting prompt action. Molecular approaches could improve speed and precision. This study aimed to concurrently detect the arpA, chuA, TspE4C2, and yjaA genes in UTI-associated E. coli isolates using PCR and to explore their association with antibiotic resistance patterns. Methods: This study was conducted at Samarra General Hospital and other Iraqi outpatient clinics. Two hundred samples were obtained from individuals of both sexes who exhibited symptoms indicative of UTIs, as identified by the examining physician. Female UTIs outnumber those of men. Under optical microscopy and bacterial cell identification, the samples revealed harmful microorganisms. One hundred fifty-six samples (78%) were infected with E. coli. API 20E identified isolates; selective culture media and biochemical tests identified others. Results: Particularly in the 20–45-year age range, more women than men were infected; 110 isolates (70.51%) compared to 46 (29.49%). The chuA gene was found in 98 (100%) isolates; the yjaA gene in 42 (42.85%); the TspE4C2 gene in 40 (40.82%); and the arpA gene in 16 (16.33%). Specifically, the resistance rates were as follows: Amoxicillin 95%, Gentamicin 66%, Ceftriaxone 79%, Nitrofurantoin 79%, Amikacin 65%, Imipenem 84%, Meropenem 48%, Tetracycline 91%, and Ciprofloxacin 56%. However, the resistance rate was relatively lower for Nalidixic acid at 40%. Conclusion: These findings underscore the critical necessity for ongoing molecular surveillance of virulence factors and resistance patterns to guide local antimicrobial stewardship initiatives.