How SspA from Streptococcus suis Affects Inflammation in Macrophages
Author Information
Author(s): Bonifait Laetitia, Grenier Daniel
Primary Institution: Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale (GREB), Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Hypothesis
The S. suis SspA subtilisin-like protease may modulate cytokine secretion by macrophages thus contributing to the pathogenic process of meningitis.
Conclusion
This study identified a new mechanism by which the S. suis SspA may promote central nervous system inflammation associated with meningitis.
Supporting Evidence
- Recombinant SspA induced the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, CXCL8, and CCL5 in macrophages.
- Heat-inactivated SspA still induced cytokine secretion, indicating a non-proteolytic mechanism.
- Stimulation with SspA-deficient mutant resulted in lower cytokine secretion compared to the parental strain.
Takeaway
The SspA protein from a bacteria called Streptococcus suis can make immune cells called macrophages release substances that cause inflammation, which might lead to meningitis.
Methodology
Macrophages were treated with recombinant SspA and cytokine secretion was measured using ELISA.
Limitations
The study primarily used in vitro models, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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