Why some strep infections turn deadly: A genetic clue

Masayuki ONO, Shigetada KAWABATA
Department of Microbiology

The research group have identified a novel genetic mutation in Streptococcus pyogenes, a common bacterium which causes strep throat, significantly associated with severe invasive infections. A single mutation in the bacterial ferric ion transporter enhances bacterial growth in human blood. This mutation, unique to Japanese isolates, indicates a novel pathogenic mechanism. This world-first discovery offers a potential new target for treatments and preventive measures.

The article, “Identifying Genetic Variations in emm89 Streptococcus pyogenes Associated with Severe Invasive Infections” was published inin eLife at DOI: https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.101938