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[Neuraminidase activity of staphylococci]
Abstract:
141 S. aureus and S. epidermidis strains, isolated from the personnel of obstetric wards by taking smears from the anterior sections of the nose, have been tested for their capacity for neuraminidase production. The test has been carried out by the thiobarbiturate method in a medium with ovomucin added. Neuraminidase activity has been found to be characteristic mostly of S. aureus strains isolated from constant carriers.
Insights
Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains from obstetric personnel were tested for neuraminidase production. Neuraminidase activity was primarily observed in Staphylococcus aureus strains from constant nasal carriers.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Enzymology
Background:
- Staphylococcus species are common human commensals.
- Neuraminidase is an enzyme with various biological roles.
- Understanding enzyme production in clinically relevant bacteria is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuraminidase production capacity of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains.
- To determine if neuraminidase production correlates with carrier status in healthcare personnel.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of 141 Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains from nasal swabs of obstetric ward personnel.
- Assay of neuraminidase activity using the thiobarbiturate method.
- Cultivation in a medium supplemented with ovomucin.
Main Results:
- Neuraminidase activity was detected in a subset of the tested strains.
- A significant association was found between neuraminidase production and Staphylococcus aureus strains.
- Strains identified as constant carriers exhibited higher neuraminidase activity.
Conclusions:
- Neuraminidase production is a characteristic feature of certain Staphylococcus aureus strains, particularly those from persistent nasal carriers.
- The findings suggest a potential role for bacterial neuraminidase in the context of Staphylococcus carriage in healthcare settings.