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Identification of an insertion sequence located in a region encoding virulence factors of Streptococcus pyogenes

A Berge1, M Rasmussen, L Björck

  • 1Section for Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden. Andreas.Berge@medkem.lu.se

Infection and Immunity
|June 25, 1998
PubMed

Insights

A novel insertion sequence, IS1562, was found in Streptococcus pyogenes M1 strains. This sequence impacts key virulence genes, suggesting a role in bacterial pathogenicity and evolution.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Streptococcus pyogenes is a significant human pathogen.
  • Virulence factors like M protein and C5a peptidase are crucial for S. pyogenes pathogenicity.
  • Insertion sequences are mobile genetic elements that can influence bacterial genomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize insertion sequences in clinically relevant Streptococcus pyogenes strains.
  • To investigate the location and potential impact of IS1562 on virulence genes within the M1 serotype.

Main Methods:

  • Genomic DNA isolation from Streptococcus pyogenes isolates.
  • Identification and sequencing of insertion sequences using molecular techniques.
  • Comparative analysis of insertion sequence locations across different strains.

Main Results:

  • IS1562 was identified in a Streptococcus pyogenes M1 serotype strain.
  • IS1562 was located within the mga regulon, between the M protein and C5a peptidase genes.
  • Similar insertion sequences were detected in most S. pyogenes strains, with varying chromosomal positions.

Conclusions:

  • IS1562 is present in clinically important S. pyogenes M1 strains.
  • The location of IS1562 adjacent to key virulence genes suggests a potential role in their regulation or expression.
  • IS1562 and related sequences are widespread in S. pyogenes, indicating their contribution to genomic diversity and pathogen evolution.

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