Urogenit Tract Infect.  2024 Dec;19(3):60-72. 10.14777/uti.2448022011.

Mechanistic Insights Into Persistent Bacterial Cystitis as a Basis for Vaccine Development: A Narrative Review

• Serrano-Arevalo K
• Naskar M
• Choi HW

• KMID: 2564694
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14777/uti.2448022011

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are primarily caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), which frequently lead to recurrent infections. These bacteria utilize several strategies to establish infection in the host; in particular, virulence factors such as fimbriae and α-hemolysin facilitate persistent infection, evade host immune responses, and minimize antibiotic exposure. To date, antibiotics have been the primary treatment for UTIs. However, an increasing emphasis has been placed on the need for UTI vaccines, with mucosal vaccine products now available in several countries. Additionally, vaccines targeting intracellular UPEC, utilizing adjuvants, are currently under development. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of uropathogens has enabled the development of new treatment approaches, paving the way for next-generation preventive and therapeutic methods that could effectively manage recurrent UTIs in the future.

Keyword

Urinary tract infections; Bacterial infections; Persistent infection; Vaccines; Vaccine adjuvants