Loss of outer membrane porins in clonally related clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae modifies the bacteria; resulting in altered resistance to phagocytosis by macrophages

Author

Debra Nickole Brunson, University of North FloridaFollow

Year

2017

Season

Spring

Paper Type

Master's Thesis

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree Name

Master of Science in Biology (MS)

Department

Biology

NACO controlled Corporate Body

University of North Florida. Department of Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Terri N. Ellis

Second Advisor

Dr. Judith D. Ochrietor

Third Advisor

Dr. Laura Lewis-Tuffin

Department Chair

Dr. Cliff Ross

College Dean

Dr. Daniel Moon

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for lobar pneumoniae, liver abscess, and septicemia. Clinical isolates are found to be extended spectrum beta lactamase positive with differential expression of the two classical porins, OmpK35 and OmpK36. Porin loss is associated with increased minimum inhibitory concentrations of beta lactam, cephalosporin, and carbapenem antibiotics that target the peptidoglycan. However, little is known about how porin loss affects other aspects of the cell envelope. The focus of this study was to characterize clinical isolates exhibiting differential porin expression and determine if the cumulative changes altered the resistance to phagocytosis by macrophages. The results support the hypothesis that porin loss significantly impacts the overall cell envelope composition, which in turn alters interactions with macrophages.

Suggested Citation

Brunson, Debra Nickole, "Loss of outer membrane porins in clonally related clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae modifies the bacteria; resulting in altered resistance to phagocytosis by macrophages" (2017). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 724.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/724