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Differences in virulence for mice between disease and carrier strains of Neisseria meningitidis
Abstract:
The virulence of 11 prototype strains of Neisseria meningitidis, which had been used in the development of the serotyping scheme for serogroup B meningococci, were examined in mice treated with iron dextran. These strains, together with those previously examined, allowed for a good assessment of the virulence differences between carrier and disease strains. All of a total of 17 disease strains displayed virulence for mice (60% with high virulence), whereas only approximately 50% of 13 carrier strains possessed virulence (only 15% with high virulence). Because the ability to initiate infection in mice is independent of exogenous iron, this model system for infection appears particularly suited to studies of the physiological bases for virulence in N. meningitidis.
Insights
Disease strains of Neisseria meningitidis showed higher virulence in mice than carrier strains. This mouse model, independent of iron, is suitable for studying meningococcal virulence factors.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis causes meningitis and sepsis.
- Serogroup B strains are a significant public health concern.
- Understanding virulence differences between disease and carrier strains is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the virulence of Neisseria meningitidis prototype strains in a mouse model.
- To differentiate virulence between meningococcal disease and carrier strains.
- To evaluate a mouse model for studying meningococcal virulence.
Main Methods:
- Tested 11 prototype Neisseria meningitidis strains in iron dextran-treated mice.
- Compared virulence of 17 disease strains and 13 carrier strains.
- Assessed infection initiation independent of exogenous iron.
Main Results:
- All 17 disease strains exhibited virulence in mice (60% highly virulent).
- Only 50% of 13 carrier strains showed virulence (15% highly virulent).
- Infection initiation in mice was not dependent on iron supplementation.
Conclusions:
- Disease strains of Neisseria meningitidis are generally more virulent than carrier strains.
- The mouse model is effective for studying meningococcal virulence.
- This model is suitable for investigating the physiological basis of N. meningitidis virulence.