Virulence and Resistance Factors Associated with the Specie of Proteus vulgaris

Abstract

Proteus vulgaris belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family, colonizing mainly the gastrointestinal tract of animals, including humans. However, when there is some deregulation in the host's immune system, this pathogen spreads, causing several clinical manifestations. Currently in the literature little is discussed about the virulence and resistance profile of this species. Thus, the study aimed, through a literature review, to describe the main virulence factors and resistance of this strain. Studies have shown that P. vulgaris is associated with most Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), despite being less isolated from P. mirabilis, exhibiting high motility ability related to its fimbriae, enzyme and endotoxin secretion, ability to produce urease and biofilm formation. As for resistance, the pathogen is intrinsically resistant to several antibiotics, requiring further studies for the development of new therapeutic alternatives.