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Published on: September 11, 2020
Antigenicity, expression, and molecular characterization of surface-located pullulanase of Streptococcus pneumoniae
R J Bongaerts1, H P Heinz, U Hadding
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany.
Abstract:
A putative pullulanase-encoding gene from Streptococcus pneumoniae was identified by screening a genomic expression library with human convalescent-phase serum. The 3,864-bp gene encoded a 143-kDa protein. Surface location and pullulanase activity of the protein, designated SpuA, was demonstrated. SpuA was present in all investigated pneumococcal isolates of different serotypes. The spuA 5' end was highly conserved among clinical isolates except for a 75-bp region. The properties of SpuA reported here indicate that this novel immunogenic surface protein might have potential as a vaccine target.
Insights
Researchers identified a novel Streptococcus pneumoniae surface protein, SpuA, with pullulanase activity. This immunogenic protein is present in all pneumococcal isolates and shows potential as a vaccine target.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major human pathogen.
- Identifying novel surface antigens is crucial for vaccine development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel immunogenic surface proteins of Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- To evaluate the potential of identified proteins as vaccine targets.
Main Methods:
- Screening of a Streptococcus pneumoniae genomic expression library using human convalescent-phase serum.
- Gene sequencing and protein characterization (surface localization, enzymatic activity).
- Analysis of protein conservation across different pneumococcal isolates.
Main Results:
- A novel pullulanase-encoding gene (spuA) was identified, encoding a 143-kDa surface protein (SpuA).
- SpuA exhibits pullulanase activity and is present in all investigated pneumococcal isolates.
- The 5' end of the spuA gene is highly conserved, with a notable exception in a 75-bp region.
Conclusions:
- SpuA is a conserved, immunogenic surface protein of Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- SpuA's properties suggest its potential as a viable vaccine target against pneumococcal infections.
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