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Rapid identification of Streptococcus intermedius by PCR with the ily gene as a species marker gene

Takatsugu Goto1, Hideaki Nagamune1, Aiko Miyazaki1

  • 1*Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokushima, Minami-josanjima cho, Tokushima 770-8506, †Department of Oral Microbiology, School of Dentistry, University of Tokushima, Kuramotocho, Tokushima 770-8504, ‡Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gifu University, Tsukasa-machi, Gifu 500-8705, §Department of Microbiology, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera, Wakayama 641-0012 and ∥Department of Applied Biological Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.

Journal of Medical Microbiology
|February 28, 2002
PubMed

Insights

A new PCR method accurately identifies Streptococcus intermedius, a bacterium causing deep-seated abscesses. This technique targets the ily gene, distinguishing it from similar species for reliable diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Streptococcus intermedius (S. intermedius) is part of the anginosus group of streptococci (AGS).
  • AGS are linked to endogenous infections, causing abscesses in oral, brain, and liver sites.
  • A new subspecies, S. constellatus subsp. pharyngis, complicates S. intermedius identification.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a precise Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) identification system for S. intermedius.
  • To utilize the ily gene as a specific marker for S. intermedius identification.
  • To overcome misidentification issues caused by similar AGS species.

Main Methods:

  • Developed a PCR assay targeting an 819-bp fragment of the ily gene and its 3'-flanking region.
  • Validated the PCR system's specificity against various streptococcal species.
  • Assessed the PCR system's applicability for direct, rapid identification using whole bacterial cells.

Main Results:

  • The developed PCR system demonstrated high specificity for S. intermedius strains.
  • The assay successfully differentiated S. intermedius from other AGS species, including S. constellatus subsp. pharyngis.
  • The PCR method proved effective for direct identification from whole bacterial cells.

Conclusions:

  • The ily gene-based PCR assay provides an accurate and specific method for identifying S. intermedius.
  • This molecular approach enhances diagnostic capabilities for S. intermedius infections.
  • The rapid PCR system offers a valuable tool for clinical microbiology laboratories.

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