**6. Capsule of uropathogenic** *Escherichia coli*

Capsule is made up of polysaccharides and it covers and protects UPEC from various harsh environmental conditions [66]. The capsule helps UPEC to resist

phagocytosis and bactericidal effects of complements in the host. It also confers antimicrobial resistance and antiserum activity to UPEC [54, 61]. Capsules like K1 and K5 interfere with the proper response of the humoral immunity of the infected host [66]. The K1 polysaccharide plays a significant role in intracellular bacterial community (IBC) development and the pathogenesis of several UTI stages [54, 67].
