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Microevolution through DNA exchange among strains of Neisseria meningitidis isolated during an outbreak in the Czech

P Kriz1, D Giorgini, M Musilek

  • 1National Reference Laboratory for Meningococcal Infections, NIPH, Prague, Czech Republic.

Research in Microbiology
|June 22, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Genetic exchange occurred between epidemic and endemic Neisseria meningitidis strains during a Czech Republic epidemic. This led to new variants with altered surface structures, requiring ongoing surveillance.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Neisseria meningitidis exhibits significant genetic variability.
  • Natural competence and horizontal DNA exchange contribute to mosaic genetic structures.
  • An epidemic in the Czech Republic (1993-1997) provided a unique opportunity to study these exchanges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate genetic exchange between epidemic and endemic Neisseria meningitidis strains.
  • To identify the genetic basis of new meningococcal variants during an epidemic.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 145 meningococcal strains isolated between 1993 and 1997.
  • Utilized serological typing methods.
  • Employed genetic typing: multilocus enzyme electrophoresis and pilA/pilD gene polymorphism analysis.

Main Results:

  • Confirmed genetic exchange between epidemic and endemic Neisseria meningitidis strains.
  • Identified exchanges primarily involving surface-exposed structures, such as the capsule.
  • Observed the emergence of novel meningococcal variants resulting from these exchanges.

Conclusions:

  • Horizontal DNA exchange is a significant driver of Neisseria meningitidis evolution.
  • The emergence of new variants with altered surface antigens poses a potential public health concern.
  • Close surveillance of these expanding variants is crucial for effective disease control.

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