Immunogenicity and cross-protective efficacy of double-mutant Streptococcus suis ΔSspepO/ΔSspspC serotypes 2 and 7

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (S. suis 2) is a major pathogen causing streptococcosis in swine, resulting in significant losses in swine breeding worldwide. We previously reported that the non-antibiotic-resistant double-mutant strain ΔSspepO/ΔSspspC can be used as a live vaccine, providing effective protection against S. suis 2 infections in mice. This study aimed to understand the characteristics of streptococcosis and develop vaccine candidates for immunization. Intramuscular injection of live S. suis ΔSspepO/ΔSspspC in pigs induced discernable antibody production and provided cross-protection against challenges by a type 2 strain (100% protection) and a type 7 strain (60% protection). Protection was evaluated via clinical, bacteriological, serological, and post-mortem examinations. Furthermore, vaccination induced the production of opsonizing antibodies against serotypes 2 and 7. Analysis of IgG subclasses (IgG1 and IgG2a) revealed that both Th1 and Th2 responses were induced by S. suis ΔSspepO/ΔSspspC, although the IgG2a (Th1) response predominated over the IgG1 (Th2) response. This study is the first, to our knowledge, to establish a live vaccine candidate to protect against two major S. suis serotypes. Further studies are required to assess these candidate vaccines and examine their feasibility in providing cross-protection against S. suis.