PhD Dissertation at the University of Basrah Explores the Virulence of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Living Organisms

The College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Basrah has conducted a PhD dissertation examining the virulence, serotypes, and immune responses associated with respiratory tract infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae in both humans and sheep.

The dissertation, presented by researcher Ali Abdul Kadhim, aimed to identify Klebsiella pneumoniae in respiratory infections, investigate the immune response to the bacterium, and analyze genes linked to antibiotic resistance, efflux pump systems, virulence factors, biofilm formation, and serotypes.

A total of 300 suspected cases in humans and sheep were examined, resulting in 42 confirmed isolates, of which 17 isolates were selected for whole-genome sequencing and deposited in the NCBI GenBank database.

The study recommended expanding the use of whole-genome sequencing on additional local isolates to support the development of effective therapeutic and preventive strategies.

Media and Government Communication Division – College of Veterinary Medicine – University of Basrah