Investigation of Biofilm-Associated Genes (pslA and pslD) in Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Clinical Specimens in Najaf, Iraq

Shlash, Ameen Abdulridha; Shubbar, Ebtehal Edrees

doi:10.36582/ksj.2026.190934

Investigation of Biofilm-Associated Genes (pslA and pslD) in Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Clinical Specimens in Najaf, Iraq

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Ameen Abdulridha Shlash

Ebtehal Edrees Shubbar

https://doi.org/10.36582/ksj.2026.190934

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant opportunistic pathogen frequently implicated in nosocomial infection, It is commonly acknowledged as a model for multidrug resistance (MDR) brought on by acquired and inherent resistance mechanisms, including biofilm. The goal of the current investigation was to identify trends in antibiotic resistance, the phenotypic biofilm formation and the molecular detection of the genes pslA and pslD among 30 P.aeruginosa clinical isolates recovered from wound swabs, urine, burns, and ear swabs of patients at different hospitals in Najaf, Iraq. Isolation identification and drug sensitivity testing for 16 antibiotics were determined by VITEK-2 Compact System. Phenotypic assessment of biofilm formation was performed using MicroTiter Plate method (MTP), while biofilm genes were detected using PCR. All isolates showed multidrug resistance and active biofilm formation by Microtiter Plate method. Additionally, pslA (119 bp) and pslD (295 bp) genes were detected in all isolates by conventional PCR. These findings highlight the significance of the biofilm formation in the multidrug resistance phenotype of P. aeruginosa, underscoring the necessity of ongoing monitoring and alternate treatment approaches.

Keywords

PCR

Najaf

pslA

palD

Microtiter Plate method

Biofilm

Multidrug resistance and pseudomonas aeruginosa