Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 26, 2026

Characterization of Inflammatory Responses During Intranasal Colonization with Streptococcus pneumoniae
09:12

Characterization of Inflammatory Responses During Intranasal Colonization with Streptococcus pneumoniae

Published on: January 17, 2014

13.0K

Genome analysis of a MDR Streptococcus pneumoniae 23F serotype causing meningoencephalitis in a 10-months refugee

Tamara Salloum1, Elie Tannous2, Samar Merheb-Ghoussoub3

  • 1Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon. tamara.salloum@lau.edu.

Journal of Infection in Developing Countries
|December 13, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Genomic analysis revealed a multidrug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae strain, ST-277, linked to infant meningoencephalitis. High genome diversity may explain its invasiveness, highlighting the need for whole-genome sequencing in disease surveillance.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a significant cause of invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD).
  • The resurgence of S. pneumoniae-associated meningoencephalitis in Lebanon is a growing public health concern.
  • Multidrug resistance in S. pneumoniae complicates treatment and increases disease severity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To perform a comparative genome analysis of a multidrug-resistant S. pneumoniae isolate (LAU-23F) responsible for meningoencephalitis and fatality in an infant.
  • To investigate the genetic basis of the isolate's resistance and invasiveness by comparing it with 24 related public genome sequences.
  • To identify specific genetic features contributing to the virulence and resistance profile of the S. pneumoniae strain.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of the S. pneumoniae LAU-23F isolate.
  • Analysis of serotype, capsular genes, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
  • Investigation of penicillin-binding protein (PBP) gene mosaicity and screening for virulence factors and resistance genes.

Main Results:

  • The isolate was identified as ST-277, serotype 23F, exhibiting intermediate resistance to ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, and penicillin.
  • Gene mosaicity was observed in pbp2x, with pbp1a and pbp2b conserved compared to a reference strain.
  • High genomic heterogeneity was noted, particularly in phage-encoded regions, and a diverse array of virulence factors was detected.

Conclusions:

  • The extensive genomic diversity of the S. pneumoniae LAU-23F isolate likely contributes to its significant invasiveness.
  • Genomic approaches, including WGS, are crucial for effective clinical diagnostics and surveillance of streptococcal infections.
  • This study underscores the importance of continuous genomic monitoring to understand and combat emerging infectious threats.

More Related Videos

Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria11:32

Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria

Published on: February 23, 2014

15.5K
Constructing Mutants in Serotype 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae strain 519/4306:06

Constructing Mutants in Serotype 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae strain 519/43

Published on: September 11, 2020

2.0K

Related Concept Videos

Bacterial Meningitis01:24

Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is a severe infectious disease involving inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when pathogenic bacteria cross the blood–brain barrier and enter the cerebrospinal fluid. Common causative organisms include Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli K1. The exact route of entry varies by pathogen and host condition.Routes of Entry...
Viral Meningitis01:18

Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is the most common form of meningitis and is often referred to as aseptic meningitis to indicate the absence of bacterial involvement. It is generally milder than bacterial meningitis, with symptoms including fever, headache, stiff neck, drowsiness, nausea, photophobia, and vomiting. Rarely, more severe manifestations or death may occur. Common causative agents include enteroviruses, particularly coxsackie A and B viruses and echoviruses, all members of the Enterovirus genus...
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction01:22

Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction

Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology01:26

Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology

Bacterial meningitis typically begins when pathogens such as Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae colonize the nasopharynx and invade the bloodstream. This process is facilitated by bacterial virulence factors, such as polysaccharide capsules, which resist phagocytosis and complement-mediated killing. Less commonly, bacteria reach the central nervous system via contiguous spread from infections like otitis media or sinusitis, through congenital or acquired dural defects, or...