Calling a Truce: Enterococcus faecalis as a mediator between E. coli and C. albicans during polymicrobial CAUTIs

CAUTIs promotes colonization by different microbes, including E. faecalis, E. coli, and C. albicans. These mixed biofilms can compromise antimicrobial efficacy and promote resistance.

Despite their prevalence, the cross-kingdom dynamics driving these infections within the catheterized bladder remain poorly understood. Using established in vitro and in vivo CAUTI models, we elucidate the complex, environment-dependent interactions governing these multispecies biofilms. We demonstrate that E. coli strongly antagonizes C. albicans, by limiting iron uptake, inhibiting filamentation, and inducing cell death.