Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 295 305 Shadi Moradi Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran Reza Moradi-Hajidavaloo Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran Fatemeh Soleimanifar Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Kiana Shahzamani Hepatitis Research Center, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Mehdi Hajian Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran Hajar-Alsadat Mansouri-Tehrani Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran 2025 11 05 2026 05 06 Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer potential of Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus cell-free supernatants (CFSs) against the PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cell line, focusing on apoptosis, cell cycle modulation, and the expression of BAX and BCL-XL genes. Materials and Methods: PANC-1 cancer cells and adult human dermal fibroblast (HDFa) cells were treated with various concentrations of individual or combined CFSs. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. Apoptosis was evaluated through Hoechst/PI staining and flow cytometry, while cell cycle distribution was analyzed via flow cytometry. Gene expression of BAX and BCL-XL was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Results: At 20% (v/v), all CFS treatments significantly reduced PANC-1 cell viability while showing minimal effects on HDFa cells. Flow cytometry confirmed apoptotic rates of 39.33%, 42%, and 40.33% for L. casei, L. rhamnosus, and their combination, respectively, alongside a notable increase in S-phase cell population. Gene expression analysis showed a pro-apoptotic shift, characterized by BAX upregulation and BCL-XL downregulation. Conclusion: CFSs from L. casei and L. rhamnosus showed anticancer effects on PANC-1 cells, inducing apoptosis, S-phase arrest, and a favorable shift in apoptosis-related gene expression. These findings highlight their potential as promising adjuvant candidates for pancreatic cancer therapy. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5910 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5910/1888

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 306 311 Nedaa Husein Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Zarqa, Jordan Muna Abbas Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Zarqa, Jordan Dania Basha Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan Dima Owais Department of Genetics, Precision Medical Laboratory Group, Amman, Jordan Nameer Hanineh-Halasa Department of Internal Medicine, Royal Medical Services (RMS), Amman, Jordan 2026 02 09 2026 05 01 Background and Objectives: Helicobacter pylori is a common chronic bacterial infection primarily associated with gastrointestinal disease. Increasing evidence suggests that H. pylori may also exert systemic effects beyond the stomach, including possible modulation of neuroendocrine pathways. This study aimed to investigate the association between H. pylori infection and alterations in serum cortisol and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels as indicators of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis activity. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, 850 adults were enrolled, including 425 H. pylori-positive cases and 425 H. pylori-negative controls. Active H. pylori infection was determined using a monoclonal stool antigen test (HpSA). Fasting venous blood samples were collected between 08:00 and 10:00 AM under standardized conditions. Serum cortisol and TSH levels were measured using validated immunoassays. Group comparisons, correlation analysis, sex-stratified subgroup analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed. Results: H. pylori-positive participants had significantly higher serum cortisol levels and lower TSH levels compared with controls (both p < 0.001). A significant inverse correlation between cortisol and TSH was observed only in infected participants (r = -0.41, p < 0.001). These hormonal alterations were evident in both sexes. ROC analysis showed moderate discriminatory performance for cortisol (AUC = 0.71) and fair-to-moderate performance for TSH (AUC = 0.67). Conclusion: H. pylori infection was significantly associated with elevated cortisol levels, reduced TSH levels, and an inverse relationship between both hormones in adults. These findings suggest that chronic H. pylori infection may influence both HPA and HPT axis regulation and support further investigation into its systemic neuroendocrine effects. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/6065 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/6065/1889

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 312 321 Pooja Pandey Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Raunak Bir Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Kuhu Chatterjee Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India Nikhil Verma Department of Medicine, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Yasha Mukim Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Komal Grover Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Shefali Sharma Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Priya Sehgal Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Swati Chamoli Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Rajiv Gupta Department of Microbiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India Anil Pandey Department of Physiology, ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India 2025 02 18 2026 05 15 Background and Objectives: Sepsis is a life threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infection and is associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early bacterial detection and therapy with antibiotics improve outcomes. We compared multiplex quantitative PCR (qPCR) to traditional blood culture for early pathogen detection in critically ill patients with suspected sepsis. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 200 critically ill ICU patients with suspected sepsis. Multiplex qPCR using the TRUPCR® Sepsis Panel was compared with conventional blood culture for pathogen detection. To assess sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV, blood culture was used as the reference standard. Mortality, ICU stay, and antibiotic therapy time were studied. Multivariable logistic regression was adjusted for baseline severity (SOFA, APACHE II), septic shock, and antibiotic exposure. Results: Multiplex qPCR significantly reduced the time to initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy (5.2 vs 8.3 hours, p<0.001). The assay demonstrated higher sensitivity compared with blood culture for pathogen detection. qPCR positivity was associated with shorter ICU stay and lower mortality; however, these associations were interpreted after adjustment for baseline illness severity. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus were the most frequently detected pathogens, and several antimicrobial resistance genes including blaCTX-M, blaNDM, and mecA were identified. Conclusion: Multiplex qPCR can detect infections early and optimize antimicrobials for sepsis. These findings should be cautiously evaluated and corroborated in larger multicentre trials due to reduced specificity and observational nature. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5302 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5302/1890

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 322 331 Pegah Shakib Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Mohammad Reza Zolfaghari Department of Microbiology, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Mina Hosseini Department of Microbiology, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Fatemeh Mosaei Department of Microbiology, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Seyed Soheil Aghaei Department of Microbiology, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran 2025 03 05 2026 05 13 Background and Objectives: Today there are reports of the spread of multiple antibiotic resistance in Aeromonas spp., which can be opportunistic pathogens and can cause infection in the host. This study aimed to investigate ERIC-PCR and BOX-PCR typing, drug resistance pattern, and tetracycline, sulfonamide, and fluoroquinolone resistance genes in Aeromonas hydrophila collected from diarrhea samples of children in Qom City, Iran. Materials and Methods: In our cross-sectional descriptive study, isolates of A. hydrophila isolated from children's diarrhea samples at Hazrat Masoumeh Hospital in Qom were evaluated between 2018 and 2020. Once isolates confirmed, the level of antimicrobial resistance of the strains was determined by the disk diffusion assay following the recommendations of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). The genes of tetA, tetB, tetC, tetD, tetE, sul1, sul2, Edq1qc, qnrA, qnrB, qnrS were studied using the PCR method. Then the genetic diversity of the isolates was investigated by ERIC-PCR and box-PCR. Finally, data analysis was done with SPSS version 16. Results: From 100 A. hydrophila strains, the highest resistance, and sensitivity were related to ampicillin (92%) and azithromycin (96%), respectively. The frequency of tetA, tetB, tetC, tetD, tetE, sul1, sul2, Edq1qc, qnrA, qnrB, qnrS genes was 23, 24, 27, 23, 21, 26, 10, 22, 8, 11, 15%, respectively. With ERIC-PCR and BOX-PCR techniques, all isolates could be typed, so that 8 genetic patterns were determined in ERIC-PCR and 10 genetic patterns were determined in BOX-PCR. A significant relationship was found between cefotaxime and tetA (p = 0.012), ciprofloxacin and tetC (p = 0.018), cefotaxime and qnrA (p = 0.04), and also between tetracycline resistance genes and both sulfonamide genes (p > 0.05). Conclusion: For the first time this study revealed resistance genes for tetracycline, sulfonamide, and fluoroquinolones in A. hydrophila isolated from childeren’s diarrhea samples in Qom. Even though these antimicrobial resistance genes are present in our study and bacteria are resistant to different types of antimicrobials, it can be predicted that the abundance of these genes will increase in the future. We also observed that A. hydrophila isolates had high genetic diversity. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5331 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5331/1891

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 332 337 Wissal Nordine Department of Biology, Mohamed VI University Hospital Center, Marrakech, Morocco Ayoub Ame Department of Biology, Mohamed VI University Hospital Center, Marrakech, Morocco Taoufik Benhoumich Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco Asmaa Lamrani Hanchi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco Nabila Soraa Laboratory of Microbiology, University Hospital Mohamed VI, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco 2025 11 24 2026 05 06 Background and Objectives: Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) constitute a critical public health concern due to multidrug resistance and limited available treatment options. This study aimed to assess the in vitro susceptibility of CPE isolates to colistin, fosfomycin, and mecillinam. Materials and Methods: Prospective study was conducted in 2023 at Mohammed VI University Hospital, Marrakech. A total sample of 180 non-duplicate CPE isolates were collected and identified by standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed following recommended guidelines. Results: Among the isolates, Klebsiella pneumoniae (60%) and Escherichia coli (14%) predominated. The most common carbapenemase was NDM (62%), followed by OXA-48 (26%) and co-producers (11%). Most isolates were obtained from intensive care (32%), plastic surgery (13%), and neonatology (12%) units. Skin and soft tissue (43%) and bloodstream (21%) were the predominant infected sites. Resistance rates were 25% for colistin, 48% for fosfomycin, and 64% for mecillinam, with frequent co-resistance to fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, and cotrimoxazole. Conclusion: The high prevalence of NDM-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and significant resistance to last-line agents suggest the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship, optimized therapeutic strategies, and strengthened regional surveillance. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5960 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5960/1892

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 338 344 Muhammad Wasam Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Ali Sheikh Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Aftab Anjum Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Muhammad Beig Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5322 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5322/1861

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 55 66 EN Farzaneh Korani Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Nayeb Ali Rezvani Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Noorkhoda Sadeghifard Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Behrooz Sadeghi Kalani Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Reza Pakzad Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Parisa Asadollahi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran 2025 08 29 2025 12 07 Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading malignancy with multifactorial etiology, including genetic, environmental, and microbial factors. Bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, pks⁺ bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis, and Bifidobacterium bifidum have been linked to CRC, though their roles remain controversial. Some may promote inflammation and genotoxicity, while others may confer protective effects. This study assessed the presence and relative abundance of these bacteria in colorectal FFPE tissue samples. Materials and Methods: This case-control study included three groups of FFPE tissue samples: tumor tissues from CRC patients (Tumor, n=50), normal tissues adjacent to tumors (Adjacent, n=50), and normal tissues from non-CRC individuals (Normal, n=30). Sections were prepared with a microtome, and bacterial gene copy numbers were quantified using species-specific primers and quantitative real-time PCR, normalized to human GAPDH. Associations with age, sex, and neoplastic type were analyzed (p < 0.05). Results: B. bifidum was significantly higher in Adjacent tissues compared to Tumor and Normal (p < 0.0001). H. pylori detection increased progressively from Normal to Adjacent to Tumor tissues (p = 0.002). pks⁺ bacteria were detected only in individuals ≥60 years (p = 0.014). E. faecalis load was higher in Tumor tissues of females and older adults, though overall presence did not differ significantly among groups. Conclusion: Enrichment of B. bifidum and increased H. pylori detection near tumors suggest the tumor microenvironment favors bacterial persistence. Age- and sex-related patterns in pks⁺ and E. faecalis highlight host influences on microbial distribution in CRC, supporting further mechanistic studies. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5746 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5746/1862

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 67 73 Arun Sachu Department of Microbiology, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India Alice David Department of Biostatistics, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India 2025 11 15 2025 12 16 Background and Objectives: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are most frequently caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli, which accounts for approximately 80% of the cases. Other causative agents include Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., Enterobacter spp., Enterococcus spp., and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. The main objectives of the study were to estimate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of fosfomycin against multidrug-resistant uropathogens (MDR) isolated from patients with suspected UTI using CLSI and EUCAST criteria and to describe the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of uropathogens isolated during the study. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study in which a total of 900 urine samples were collected from patients presenting with physician-assessed signs and symptoms suggestive of a UTI. Only samples exhibiting significant bacteriuria that were also multidrug-resistant (MDR) were included. Although fosfomycin disk diffusion criteria, according to CLSI and EUCAST, are only validated for E. coli, susceptibility among other Gram-negative bacteria was also interpreted using the same criteria. This represents a major limitation of the study. Results: In the study, 251 samples grew multi drug resistant organisms. Only 57% of the Gram-negative isolates were sensitive according to EUCAST guidelines, while 87.6% of all isolates were sensitive by CLSI criteria. Among the 161 carbapenem-resistant isolates, 135 (83.9%) were fosfomycin-susceptible and 18 (11.2%) were resistant according to CLSI. In contrast, by EUCAST criteria, only 40 (24.9%) isolates were fosfomycin-susceptible, and the remaining 121 (75.1%) were resistant. Conclusion: Our study showed that using fosfomycin disc diffusion criteria of E. coli for other organisms is not ideal; therefore, performing an alternative form of susceptibility testing for non-E. coli isolates is recommended. Continuous monitoring of fosfomycin susceptibility is warranted to detect any emerging resistance and to guide its clinical application. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5931 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5931/1863

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 74 81 Akbar Hashemi Tayer Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran Gholamreza Shokoohi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran 2024 05 15 2026 02 07 Background and Objectives: Umbilical cord blood-derived platelet gel (CBPG) is rich in growth factors (GFs) and antimicrobial peptides. This study evaluated its in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity against dominant nosocomial pathogens. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, CB samples were taken from 12 healthy pregnant women post-cesarean at Motahari Hospital, Jahrom. Platelet -rich plasma (PRP) was isolated using a two-step centrifugation protocol (soft-spin: 200×g, 10 min; hard spin:1000×g, 15 min, 22°C) and activated with calcium and human thrombin to form PG. Antimicrobial effect of PG was determined against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp. using broth microdilution and time-kill assays per CLSI guidelines. Results: PG exhibited strong bacteriostatic activity against MRSA and K. pneumoniae (MIC 2.2–2.8 × 10⁸ platelets/mL; 1.7-1.8 log₁₀ reduction at 24 h, p < 0.001), while PRP was moderately active and PPP was ineffective. No significant activity was observed against P. aeruginosa or A. baumannii (p= 0.2). PG showed sustained fungistatic effects (MIC: 1.9-4.2× 10⁸ platelets/mL up to 72 h). Conclusion: CBPG exhibits potent bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects, particularly against MDR Gram-positive bacteria, offering a novel autologous antimicrobial. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4789 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4789/1864

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 82 90 Ali Abbas Hashemi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran Mostafa Nemati Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran Fazel Pourahmad Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran 2025 04 10 2026 01 29 Background and Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), poses a significant public health threat, exacerbated by antibiotic misuse in livestock and food production. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of MRSA in traditional dairy products from Ilam, Iran, and explore the role of prophages in enhancing bacterial virulence and resistance, assessing their implications for food safety. Materials and Methods: Between January and April 2021, 116 dairy samples (raw milk, traditional cheese, and toof) were collected from Ilam, Iran. Staphylococcus aureus was identified using bacteriological and molecular methods, including PCR targeting femA, mecA, and prophage markers (SGB, SGFa, SGFb). Antibiotic susceptibility was tested via the Kirby-Bauer method, and data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: S. aureus was detected in 25.9% of samples (30/116), with raw milk showing the highest contamination (57.9%). MRSA, identified by the mecA gene, was present in 6.7% of isolates, and 73.3% exhibited multidrug resistance. Prophages were found in 13.3% of isolates, with SGB linked to β-lactam resistance (p = 0.04). High resistance to doxycycline (87%) and tetracycline (67%) was observed. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant presence of MRSA and multidrug-resistant S. aureus in Ilam’s dairy products, with prophages contributing to the virulence of these bacteria. Enhanced hygiene and monitoring are crucial for mitigating food safety risks. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5418 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5418/1865

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 91 101 Basharat Wani Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Shayaib Ahmad Kamil Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Showkat Shah Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Masood Saleem Mir Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Mir Nadeem Hassan Depatment of Veterinary Microbiology & Immunology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Zahid Amin Kashoo Depatment of Veterinary Microbiology & Immunology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Mudasir Ali Rather Department of Veterinary Public Health, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Majid Shafi Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Zahoor Ahmad Wani Department of Veterinary Parasitology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Nadeem Shabir Department of Animal Biotechnology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Nazli Tizro Department of the Environment, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Akeel Bashir Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Atif Wani Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India 2025 02 02 2025 11 07 Background and Objectives: Present study was aimed at assessing protective efficacy of outer membrane protein (OMP) vaccine in comparison to inactivated whole cell antigen vaccine after challenge with homologous serogroup (O2) of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: The outer membrane proteins were extracted by sarcosyl method and protein concentration was determined by nanodrop spectrophotometer. The study comprised of 120 birds divided into 6 groups. The birds were subcutaneously immunized twice with primary vaccine in the first week followed by booster vaccine in second week. Results: The protection rate of 82% was found in whole cell inactivated antigen, 91% in OMP vaccine and 27% among the unvaccinated group. The antibody (IgG) response was found significantly higher in OMP vaccine group than whole cell antigen group. In unvaccinated groups chicks, the antibody titer never reached to the protective level till the termination of experiment. The bacteria were re-isolated from the infected broiler chickens for the confirmation of induced infection and were characterized using standard cultural and biochemical tests belonging to O2 serogroup. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the outer membrane protein (OMP) vaccine provided significantly higher protection (91%) and antibody response compared to the inactivated whole cell antigen vaccine (82%) against Escherichia coli O2 infection in broiler chickens. Birds vaccinated with OMP exhibited fewer pathological lesions and a stronger immune response. The findings underscore the potential of OMP-based vaccines as a safer, more immunogenic alternative for controlling colibacillosis. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5272 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5272/1866

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 102 111 Arti Agrawal Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India Anshika Chawla Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India Astha . Department of Microbiology, F.H. Medical College, Agra, India Jitendra Doneria Department of Medicine, SN Medical College, Agra, India Nitu Chauhan Department of Transfusion Medicine, SN Medical College, Agra, India Ayushi Gupta Department of Liberal Arts and Humanities, Jindal School, Sonipat, Haryana, Agra, India Gargi Tyagi Department of Administrative, SN Medical College, Agra, India Parul Garg Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India 2025 07 09 2025 11 06 Background and Objectives: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major global health challenge, with limited Indian data on factors influencing treatment outcomes. This study assessed immunological and virological responses and survival determinants among treatment-naïve HIV-1–positive adults. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre from May 2022 to April 2023. Adults (≥18 years) who initiated first-line ART (TDF + 3TC + DTG) between January 2019 and December 2020 with 24-month follow-up were included. Baseline demographics, CD4 count, viral load, and adherence were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: Of 452 screened patients, 355 were eligible. Mortality at 6, 12, and 24 months was 22%, 26.8%, and 29.9%, respectively, with overall survival of 70.1%. Baseline CD4 count, viral load, adherence, and ART initiation timing significantly influenced outcomes (p < 0.05). Patients with baseline between 200 to 350 had almost 7 times the odds of survival compared to those with <200 cells/µL. Early ART initiation (≤7 days) improved survival (3-fold) and viral suppression (2.4-fold), while adherence >95% was the strongest predictor of success. Older age and high viral load predicted poorer outcomes. Conclusion: Early ART initiation, strict adherence, and favourable baseline markers significantly improved survival and suppression, supporting the “test-and-treat” approach and the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5609 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5609/1867

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 112 121 Rabaa Alathamneh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa, University, Zarqa Jordan Manal Omar Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan Maher Obeidat Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Salt, Jordan Lo’ai Alanagreh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan Abdelrahim Alqudah Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan Muhannad Massadeh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan; Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan 2025 03 02 2026 01 08 Background and Objectives: Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a prevalent member of the herpesvirus family, poses significant risks to immunocompromised patients, particularly those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or solid organ transplantation (SOT). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and genotype distribution of CMV among transplant recipients in Jordan. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study conducted at the Jordan Royal Medical Service's Virology Department from January to October 2024, included all patients who underwent HSCT or SOT. Blood samples collected in EDTA tubes were analyzed for CMV detection and genotyping. Real-time PCR facilitated CMV amplification, while multiplex nested PCR identified gB and gN genotypes. Results: Among 80 transplant recipients with positive CMV DNA, 15 (18.8%) were from SOT kidney transplants (KT), and 65 (81.2%) were HSCT recipients. Genotype analysis of 44 samples revealed that 21 had the gN genotype and 27 had the gB genotype. Mixed genotypes gB and gN were present in 15 samples. The mixed genotype gN1+gN2 (42.86%) was most common in KT recipients, while gB2 (31%) was prevalent among HSCT recipients. Conclusion: CMV is a common opportunistic virus that often leads to severe, life-threatening illness and is associated with an increased risk of transplant rejection. Our study demonstrated that the most prevalent genotypes in Jordanian HSCT and SCT recipients with CMV infection were gB2 and gN1+gN2, respectively. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5327 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5327/1868

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 122 130 EN V Parvathy Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Pryanka Thakur Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India; Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Vikram Thakur Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas, United States Vikrant Sharma Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Ishani Bora Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Radha Ratho Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Suresh Angurana Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Mini Singh Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India 2025 09 04 2026 01 05 Background and Objectives: Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, accounting for approximately 18% of deaths in those <5 years of age. Viruses cause 50-90% of pediatric ARTI cases. Human rhinovirus (HRV) is increasingly associated with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). This study aimed to detect HRV in pediatric ARTI cases and characterize circulating genotypes. Materials and Methods: Nasopharyngeal swabs from 154 children (≤5 years) presenting with ARTI were screened for HRV using real-time PCR. Thirteen samples with a cycle threshold ≤30 were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using 41 global reference sequences representing different geographical regions and HRV types. Results: HRV was detected in 34.41% (53/154) of the samples. In children aged >1 month to 1 year, HRV positivity was significantly associated with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) compared with influenza-like illness (ILI). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a predominance of HRV-C strains (n = 7), followed by HRV-A (n = 5) and HRV-B (n = 1). Conclusion: HRV was detected in a significant proportion of pediatric ARTI cases, with HRV-C as the predominant strain. Infants aged >1 month to 1 year showed a higher association with severe illness, underscoring the need for closer clinical monitoring in this age group. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5758 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5758/1869

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 131 137 EN Golnaz Mokhtari Irani Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Azarakhsh Azaran Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Roya Pirmoradi Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Alireza Tabibzadeh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran; Applied Neuroscience Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran Mohamad Rashno Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Manoochehr Makvandi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2024 11 06 2026 02 04 Background and Objectives: The enteroviruses may lead to conditions such as aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, acute flaccid myelitis, epidemic pleurodynia (Bornholm disease), hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, and myopericarditis among pediatric populations. The present study was undertaken to identify the presence of enteroviruses within sewage treatment systems. Materials and Methods: 24 composite effluent sewage samples (500 ml each) were collected, centrifuged (1000 rpm for 30 minutes), and the first supernatant was saved. The precipitate was resuspended in 10 ml of supernatant, treated with 10% chloroform, and centrifuged again (1000 rpm for 5 minutes) to collect a second supernatant. The first and second supernatants were combined, treated with 2.2% sodium chloride and 7% polyethylene glycol 6000, and the mixture was agitated at 4°C overnight before being centrifuged for two hours at 2000 g. After discarding the supernatant, the pellet was resuspended at a 1:100 dilution. Each sample was then inoculated into RD and HeLa cells for virus isolation, followed by detection via RT-PCR. A phylogenetic tree was constructed to determine the genotypes of the isolated enteroviruses. Results: Enterovirus was detected in 10 of 24 (41.7%) sewage effluent samples. Phylogenetic analysis of five randomly chosen positive samples identified echovirus 7. Conclusion: The removal of enteroviruses during the sewage treatment process is of paramount importance, necessitating heightened attention to this critical phase of wastewater management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5121 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5121/1870

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 138 146 Ali Ahmadi Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ebrahim Hazrati Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care and Trauma Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahtab Noorifard Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zohreh Farahnejad Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Mycology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mojgan Mohammadimehr Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, AJA University of Medical Sciences,Tehran, Iran 2024 09 18 2026 01 08 Background and Objectives: Candiduria related to urinary catheters is frequently encountered in patients hospitalized in intensive care units. The diagnosis and management of catheter-associated candiduria in hospitalized patients is frequently a gray area for both physicians and microbiologists because of the paucity of clinical and microbiological data. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study aims to enhance the understanding of candiduria among adult ICU patients with urinary catheters across three hospitals in Tehran, Iran. Yeast identification was performed using a two-step multiplex PCR, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed following the CLSI M27, 4th edition, recommendations. Results: Among the 110 enrolled ICU patients, 38 (35%) had significant candiduria. A total of 45 yeast isolates were collected. The distribution was as follows: Candida glabrata (23/45; 51%), C. albicans (14/45; 31%), and C. tropicalis (4/45; 9%). These three species accounted for 91% of the isolates. Antifungal resistance was detected: six isolates (two C. glabrata, two C. albicans, one C. krusei, and one C. tropicalis) were fluconazole-resistant, and one C. glabrata isolate was resistant to itraconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin. All isolated species were susceptible to amphotericin B. Symptomatic candiduria occurred in 29% of cases (11/38); only 55% (6/11) were treated, and of those, 50% (3/6) experienced fluconazole treatment failure. One symptomatic patient developed candidemia shortly after acquiring candiduria. The mortality rate was 21% (8/38), with no apparent difference in death rates between symptomatic and asymptomatic candiduric patients. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that high fluconazole failure rates among patients with symptomatic candiduria are concerning. Furthermore, speciation and antifungal susceptibility testing are crucial, as they guide clinicians in selecting the most effective agent and improving case management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5045 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5045/1871

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 147 156 EN Pariya Kouhi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Seyed Alireza Mirhosseini Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Maryam Ranjbar Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammadreza Akbari Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Zeinab Mehrabi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Rojan Javaheri Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mahsa Moosavi Department of Education, Clinical Education Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammad Alishahi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Kamran Rasekh Department of Infectious Disease, Ali Asghar Hospital, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Nazanin Fathi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Yasaman Mansoori Department of Research, Health Policy Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2024 09 24 2025 12 15 Background and Objectives: Numerous cases of mucormycosis appeared among COVID-19 patients, predominantly in Asian countries. This study aimed to investigate the clinical profile, in-hospital outcome, and one-year prognosis of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). Materials and Methods: All patients who developed CAM in Shiraz, South Iran, between July and October 2021 were included in this study. We collected data on presentations, comorbidities, risk factors, and outcomes. Results: Sixty-two patients with CAM were analyzed; the mean age was 59.3 years, and 58.1% were male. Diabetes mellitus was present in 80.6% (11.2% uncontrolled), hypertension in 54.8%, and chronic kidney disease in 11.3%. All patients had sinonasal involvement; ophthalmic, cutaneous, cerebral, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and renal involvement occurred in 41.9%, 8.1%, 6.4%, 6.4%, 1.6%, and 1.6%, respectively. In-hospital and one-year mortality were 40.3% and 48.3%. Concurrent CAM and COVID-19, hypertension, older age, and radiologically severe COVID-19 lung involvement were associated with higher mortality. In multivariable analysis, age ≥60 years predicted in-hospital (OR: 5.47; 95% CI: 1.53-19.56) and one-year mortality (OR: 7.65; 95% CI: 1.90-30.84). Long-term mortality was also associated with ≥3 risk factors (OR: 4.12; 95% CI: 1.09-15.52) and lung severity index >30 (OR: 9.35; 95% CI: 1.01-86.63). Conclusion: These findings emphasize the critical role of age in immune responses to opportunistic infections and highlight the impact of multiple comorbidities and severe lung damage on long-term prognosis in CAM. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5049 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5049/1872

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15