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Neuraminidase activity in middle ear effusions.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Streptococcus pneumoniae produces significant neuraminidase, an enzyme crucial for cleaving sialic acid. This enzyme is abundant in middle ear infections and shows distinct isoenzyme properties.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Enzymology
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common cause of bacterial infections, including otitis media.
- Neuraminidase enzymes play a role in bacterial pathogenesis by modifying host tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the neuraminidase activity in Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- To investigate the presence and properties of neuraminidase in middle ear effusions (MEE).
Main Methods:
- Fluorometric assays were used to measure neuraminidase activity.
- Ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography were employed to isolate and identify enzyme isoenzymes.
- Kinetic parameters (Km) were determined using various substrates.
Main Results:
- Substantial neutral neuraminidase activity was detected in S. pneumoniae culture filtrates and MEEs.
- Neuraminidase was present in 96% of human chronic MEEs with S. pneumoniae.
- Three distinct neuraminidase isoenzymes (I-III) were identified, with varying kinetic properties.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae secretes significant amounts of neuraminidase, particularly during the stationary phase.
- Neuraminidase activity is a common feature of S. pneumoniae-associated middle ear infections.
- The identified neuraminidase isoenzymes exhibit differential substrate specificities and kinetic properties.