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Characterization of partially purified group B streptococcal clumping factor
Zentralblatt Fur Bakteriologie, Mikrobiologie Und Hygiene. 1. Abt. Originale A, Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Infektionskrankheiten Und Parasitologie = International Journal of Microbiology and Hygiene. A, Medical Microbiology, Infectious
|July 1, 1982
Summary
Researchers investigated a streptococcal clumping factor from group B Streptococci. This factor, unlike its staphylococcal counterpart, reacts with specific animal plasmas and fibrinogen, indicating it
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Group B Streptococci are significant human pathogens.
- Bacterial clumping factors play roles in host-pathogen interactions.
- Understanding these factors aids in developing therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clumping factor of group B Streptococci.
- To compare its properties with the staphylococcal clumping factor.
- To elucidate its biochemical nature and interactions.
Main Methods:
- Culturing group B Streptococci.
- Plasma reactivity assays using guinea-pig and sheep plasmas.
- Stability tests (heat, sonication, chemical reagents).
- Enzymatic degradation studies (proteolytic enzyme, galactose oxidase).
- Sephadex column chromatography for purification.
- Fibrinogen interaction assays.
Main Results:
- The streptococcal clumping factor reacted with guinea-pig and sheep plasmas, unlike the staphylococcal factor.
- It demonstrated resistance to heat, sonication, and chemical treatments.
- The factor was degraded by proteolytic enzymes and galactose oxidase.
- Purified fractions selectively reacted with human plasma fibrinogen, causing paracoagulation.
Conclusions:
- The streptococcal clumping factor is distinct from the staphylococcal clumping factor.
- It is an acidic, proteinaceous substance.
- Its interaction with fibrinogen suggests a role in bacterial adhesion or virulence.