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Detection of "Xisco" gene for identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates
Francisco Salvà-Serra1, Gwendolyn Connolly2, Edward R B Moore3
1Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Culture Collection University of Gothenburg (CCUG), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Abstract:
We describe a PCR-assay differentiating Streptococcus pneumoniae from closely-related species of the Mitis group of the genus Streptococcus and identification of pneumococcus clinical isolates, based on the "Xisco" gene discriminatory marker. The complete "Xisco" gene sequence was observed in all S. pneumoniae genomes analyzed and absent in all non-pneumococcus genomes.
Insights
A new PCR assay uses the "Xisco" gene to accurately identify Streptococcus pneumoniae, distinguishing it from related species. This method aids in the precise identification of pneumococcus in clinical samples.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a significant human pathogen.
- Accurate differentiation from closely related Streptococcus species is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Existing diagnostic methods may lack specificity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assay for specific identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- To utilize the "Xisco" gene as a discriminatory marker for pneumococcus detection.
Main Methods:
- Development of a PCR assay targeting the "Xisco" gene.
- Analysis of complete "Xisco" gene sequences from various Streptococcus species.
- Testing the assay on clinical isolates.
Main Results:
- The "Xisco" gene was present in all analyzed Streptococcus pneumoniae genomes.
- The "Xisco" gene was absent in all analyzed non-pneumococcus Streptococcus genomes.
- The PCR assay demonstrated high specificity in differentiating S. pneumoniae.
Conclusions:
- The "Xisco" gene is a reliable marker for Streptococcus pneumoniae identification.
- The developed PCR assay provides a specific and effective tool for diagnosing pneumococcal infections.
- This assay can improve the accuracy of identifying pneumococcus in clinical settings.