Comparative genomics of Klebsiella

Klebsiella pneumoniae is of great interest to public health, as it is an opportunistic pathogen in hospital acquired infections. Among the most important infections related to this are bacteria associated with Intensive Care Units, with prevalence of 97% of associated catheters. The ability to form biofilm is one of the most important reason for progression from colonization to infection. In addition different types of virulence factors have been identified which is playing an essential role in klebsiella pneumoniae infection. The bacterial biofilm is a complex structure that comprises bacterial cells embedded in exopolysaccharide (EPS) matrix. The biofilm is usually attached to medical health care devices like catheters, ventilators or living solid surfaces. The development of a biofilm protects bacteria from host immune system and antibiotics. Both planktonic and biofilm forming klebsiella pneumoniae strains are resistant to all the know drugs such as penicillin, cephalosporins, monobactams, carbapenems and beta-lactamase inhibitors. The resistance to antibiotics make treatment options difficult. It is important to study for antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation and genome analysis for klebsiella pneumoniae strain.