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[Lysozyme activity of pneumococci]
Abstract:
Examination of 329 pneumococcal strains showed that 41.2 per cent of the cultures had lysozyme activity. The frequency of the lysozyme feature depended on the method used. The lysozyme active strains were more frequently isolated from patients than from healthy persons and characterized by antibiotic resistance. The lysozyme feature correlated with the pneumococcal virulence with respect to albino mice, capacity for capsule formaiton and resistance to phagocytosis.
Insights
Lysozyme activity was found in 41.2% of pneumococcal strains, particularly in those from patients. These lysozyme-active strains showed increased antibiotic resistance and virulence in mice.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Immunology
Background:
- * Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a major human pathogen.
- * Lysozyme is a key component of the innate immune system.
- * Understanding pneumococcal traits like lysozyme activity is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate the prevalence of lysozyme activity in pneumococcal strains.
- * To determine the correlation between lysozyme activity and other bacterial characteristics.
- * To assess the relationship between lysozyme activity and pneumococcal virulence.
Main Methods:
- * Culturing and examination of 329 pneumococcal strains.
- * Assessment of lysozyme activity using specific methods.
- * Evaluation of antibiotic resistance, capsule formation, and phagocytosis resistance.
Main Results:
- * 41.2% of pneumococcal cultures exhibited lysozyme activity.
- * Lysozyme activity frequency varied based on the detection method.
- * Strains with lysozyme activity were more common in patients than healthy individuals.
- * Lysozyme-active strains showed higher antibiotic resistance.
- * Lysozyme activity correlated with increased virulence in mice, enhanced capsule formation, and greater resistance to phagocytosis.
Conclusions:
- * Lysozyme activity is a significant feature in a subset of pneumococcal strains.
- * This activity is associated with traits that contribute to pneumococcal pathogenicity.
- * The findings suggest lysozyme activity may be a marker for more virulent and resistant pneumococcal isolates.