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Identification of a novel antigen from Staphylococcus epidermidis
S Lang1, M A Livesley, P A Lambert
1Microbiology Research Group, Pharmaceutical Sciences Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology
|November 7, 2000
Summary
A novel protein, staphylococcal secretory antigen A (SsaA), was identified in Staphylococcus epidermidis and found to be highly antigenic. Its expression during endocarditis suggests a specific role in this serious infection.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Genomics
Background:
- Staphylococcus epidermidis is a significant cause of nosocomial infections, particularly endocarditis.
- Identifying novel virulence factors is crucial for understanding and combating S. epidermidis pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel antigenic proteins expressed by Staphylococcus epidermidis.
- To investigate the potential role of identified proteins in S. epidermidis endocarditis.
Main Methods:
- Construction and screening of a Staphylococcus epidermidis genomic DNA library.
- Protein sequencing, homology analysis, Western blotting, and PCR screening.
- Analysis of antibody levels in patient sera.
Main Results:
- A novel, highly antigenic protein, staphylococcal secretory antigen A (SsaA), was identified.
- SsaA is conserved across Staphylococcus species and expressed in vivo.
- Elevated anti-SsaA IgG antibodies were detected in patients with S. epidermidis endocarditis.
Conclusions:
- SsaA is a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for S. epidermidis endocarditis.
- SsaA expression is linked to the pathogenesis of S. epidermidis endocarditis.
- The SsaA gene is specific to staphylococci among medically important bacteria tested.