Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 23, 2026

A Ligated Intestinal Loop Model in Anesthetized Specific Pathogen Free Chickens to Study Clostridium Perfringens Virulence
Published on: October 11, 2018
Pathogenicity and Virulence of Trueperella pyogenes: A Review
Magdalena Rzewuska1, Ewelina Kwiecień2, Dorota Chrobak-Chmiel3
1Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8 St., 02-786 Warsaw, Poland. magdalena_rzewuska@sggw.pl.
Abstract:
Bacteria from the species Trueperella pyogenes are a part of the biota of skin and mucous membranes of the upper respiratory, gastrointestinal, or urogenital tracts of animals, but also, opportunistic pathogens. T. pyogenes causes a variety of purulent infections, such as metritis, mastitis, pneumonia, and abscesses, which, in livestock breeding, generate significant economic losses. Although this species has been known for a long time, many questions concerning the mechanisms of infection pathogenesis, as well as reservoirs and routes of transmission of bacteria, remain poorly understood. Pyolysin is a major known virulence factor of T. pyogenes that belongs to the family of cholesterol-dependent cytolysins. Its cytolytic activity is associated with transmembrane pore formation. Other putative virulence factors, including neuraminidases, extracellular matrix-binding proteins, fimbriae, and biofilm formation ability, contribute to the adhesion and colonization of the host tissues. However, data about the pathogen-host interactions that may be involved in the development of T. pyogenes infection are still limited. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge about the pathogenic potential and virulence of T. pyogenes.
Insights
Trueperella pyogenes, an opportunistic pathogen, causes significant economic losses in livestock. This review details its virulence factors and pathogenesis, highlighting knowledge gaps in host interactions and transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
- Livestock Diseases
Background:
- Trueperella pyogenes is a common opportunistic pathogen in animals, residing on skin and mucous membranes.
- This bacterium causes purulent infections like mastitis and pneumonia, leading to substantial economic losses in livestock.
- Despite its long-known presence, T. pyogenes pathogenesis, reservoirs, and transmission routes remain poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the pathogenic potential of Trueperella pyogenes.
- To consolidate information on T. pyogenes virulence factors and their roles in infection.
- To identify gaps in understanding pathogen-host interactions for T. pyogenes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles on Trueperella pyogenes.
- Analysis of known virulence factors, including pyolysin, neuraminidases, and biofilm formation.
- Synthesis of data on T. pyogenes infection mechanisms and host interactions.
Main Results:
- Pyolysin, a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin, is a key virulence factor forming transmembrane pores.
- Other factors like neuraminidases, fimbriae, and biofilm aid in host tissue adhesion and colonization.
- Limited data exists on specific pathogen-host interactions driving T. pyogenes infections.
Conclusions:
- Trueperella pyogenes possesses multiple virulence factors contributing to its pathogenicity.
- Further research is needed to elucidate T. pyogenes transmission, reservoirs, and detailed host-pathogen interactions.
- Understanding these aspects is crucial for mitigating economic losses in livestock.
Related Concept Videos
Review and Preview
Percentiles are a type of fractile that partition data into...
Review and Preview
Defenses Against Pathogens and Herbivores
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Humoral Immune Responses

