The pk antigen as receptor for pyelonephritic E.coli

Abstract

The specific D-mannose resistant agglutination of human erythrocytes (MRHAhum) observed in uropathogenic E.coli strains was investigated. 14 consecutive pyelonephritic E.coli strains were studied. All agglutinated human erythrocytes irrespective of their ABO or Lewis bloodgroups. Neither was the HA affected by the content of H or I antigens on the erythrocytes. The agglutination was related to the P bloodgroup system. 13 of 14 strains agglutinated P erythrocytes with the pk antigen but failed to agglutinate those lacking the common pk antigen (trihexosyl ceramide). The MRHAhum was inhibited by the trihexosyl oligosacharide but not by a large range of other oligosacharides. It is concluded that the trihexosyl oligosacharide is the erythrocyte receptor of these E.coli strains. The MRHAhum is paralleled with the ability of pyelonephritic E.coli strains to adhere to human periurethral cells. The receptor(s) on the surface of urinary tract epithelium may be the same as on the P erythrocytes.