Molecular characterization of virulence genes in quorum sensing system of different pathogenic strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from neonates with pulmonary infections using PCR as efficient technique

Background: The expectation from the current research study was to genetically identify the virulence genes involved in quorum sensing (QS) in different strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as the QS controls production of many virulence factors. Objective: The intention of current research study was to isolate the pathogenic strains of P. aeruginosa from sputum samples of neonates and infants and their molecular characterization . Methods: P. aeruginosa were obtained from Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Government College University Lahore were grown on selective media. Biochemical and molecular characterization was done. Molecular characterization was done by specific primers of quorum sensing virulent genes. Amplified genes were sequenced, and accession numbers were obtained from the NCBI site. Genes lasR, lasI, rhlR, and rhlI were identified in P. aeruginosa strains (ss5, ss6, and ss11). Results: Current study revealed that these virulence genes are the main contributors of resistance of P. aeruginosa strains against different antibacterial agents. Conclusion: P. aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacterium with diverse metabolic capacity to regulate survival under many different conditions and can be highly resistant to antibiotics, facilitating its spread in diverse habitats, particularly in hospitals. These virulent genes contribute to the overall pathogenic potential of P. aeruginosa that facilitates its ability to cause disease.