Epidemic-Associated Neisseria meningitidis Detected by Multilocus Enzyme Electrophoresis
Author Information
Author(s): Michael W. Reeves, Bradley A. Perkins, Marion Diermayer, Jay D. Wenger
Primary Institution: National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Hypothesis
The increase in serogroup B meningococcal disease in Oregon and Washington is due to genetically related strains of the ET-5 complex.
Conclusion
The study suggests that the increased rates of disease in Oregon and Washington are caused by highly genetically related N. meningitidis serogroup B strains of the ET-5 complex.
Supporting Evidence
- The study analyzed strains collected from Oregon and Washington between 1993 and 1994.
- ET-5 N. meningitidis serogroup B strains have caused epidemics in various countries since 1974.
- MEE has been used to characterize genetic variation among various bacterial populations.
Takeaway
Scientists studied bacteria that cause meningitis and found that a specific group of these bacteria is making people sick in Oregon and Washington.
Methodology
Multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MEE) was used to analyze genetic variation among N. meningitidis serogroup B strains.
Participant Demographics
Strains collected from Oregon and Washington, as well as from other countries.
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