How Biofilm Matrix Helps Streptococcus pneumoniae Cause Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Claudia Trappetti, Abiodun D. Ogunniyi, Marco R. Oggioni, James C. Paton
Primary Institution: The University of Adelaide
Hypothesis
Does the extracellular matrix formation enhance the ability of Streptococcus pneumoniae to cause invasive disease?
Conclusion
The study concludes that only the opaque phenotype of Streptococcus pneumoniae can form an extracellular matrix, which enhances its ability to cause invasive disease.
Supporting Evidence
- The opaque variant of Streptococcus pneumoniae produced an extracellular matrix, while the transparent variant did not.
- Opaque biofilm-derived bacteria showed 100-fold greater adherence to human lung cells than transparent bacteria.
- Mutants lacking the lic operon and ciaRH could not form an extracellular matrix and adhered poorly to cells.
Takeaway
Some bacteria can stick together and form a protective layer called a biofilm, which helps them cause sickness. This study found that a specific type of these bacteria, called opaque, is better at making this layer and causing disease.
Methodology
The study used biofilm assays, microarray analysis, and a mouse infection model to investigate the role of biofilm formation in pneumococcal disease.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on specific strains and may not represent all pneumococcal serotypes.
Participant Demographics
CD1 mice were used for the infection model.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.0002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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