PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF VIRULENCE MECHANISMS, MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION, BIOFILM FORMATION, QUORUM SENSING, AND ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE

Abstract

The Gram-negative opportunistic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa is well known for causing serious infections in people, especially those with compromised immune systems. It is often associated with burn wounds, urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and bloodstream infections. The production of many virulence factors, such as exotoxin A, elastase, proteases, and the pigment pyocyanin, which enable bacterial survival and cause host tissue damage, is primarily responsible for this organism's pathogenic potential. To regulate the expression of virulence genes and facilitate communication between bacterial cells within a population, quorum sensing is crucial. Additionally, Pseudomonas aeruginosa's ability to form biofilms enhances its persistence in clinical settings and protects it from antimicrobial agents. The rapid rise of multidrug-resistant strains has also become a significant challenge, complicating treatment. This review provides an overview of the key characteristics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including its virulence factors, associated diseases, quorum-sensing systems, biofilm formation, and patterns of antibiotic resistance. A clear understanding of these mechanisms is important for developing effective therapeutic strategies to manage infections caused by this pathogen.