Intracellular Invasion by Streptococcus pyogenes: Invasins, Host Receptors, and Relevance to Human Disease

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Cell Biology

Background:

• The human oral-nasal mucosa is the primary reservoir for Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Invasive Streptococcus pyogenes infections have increased globally over the past 25 years.
• Mechanisms of Streptococcus pyogenes barrier traversal remain poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review invasins and pathways used by Streptococcus pyogenes for intracellular invasion.
• To discuss the relationship between intracellular invasion and the rise in human disease.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Streptococcus pyogenes invasion mechanisms.
• Analysis of studies detailing epithelial cell internalization and tight junction disruption.

Main Results:

• Streptococcus pyogenes can be internalized by mammalian epithelial cells at high frequencies.
• Streptococcus pyogenes can open tight junctions to facilitate paracellular passage.
• These invasion mechanisms offer potential explanations for epidemiological changes.

Conclusions:

• Intracellular invasion and barrier traversal are critical for Streptococcus pyogenes pathogenesis.
• Understanding these pathways is essential for addressing the increasing incidence of invasive disease.
• Further research into Streptococcus pyogenes invasins and host cell interactions is warranted.