Open AccessStreptococcal toxins: role in pathogenesis and disease
Author(s) -
Barnett Timothy C.,
Cole Jason N.,
RiveraHernandez Tania,
Henningham Anna,
Paton James C.,
Nizet Victor,
Walker Mark J.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
cellular microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.542
H-Index - 138
eISSN - 1462-5822
pISSN - 1462-5814
DOI - 10.1111/cmi.12531
Subject(s) - biology , streptococcus pyogenes , microbiology and biotechnology , streptococcus , streptococcus agalactiae , streptococcus pneumoniae , superantigen , pathogen , human pathogen , proteases , pneumolysin , immune system , cytolysin , immunology , virulence , bacteria , staphylococcus aureus , biochemistry , t cell , gene , genetics , enzyme , antibiotics
Summary Group A Streptococcus ( Streptococcus pyogenes ), group B Streptococcus ( Streptococcus agalactiae ) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) are host‐adapted bacterial pathogens among the leading infectious causes of human morbidity and mortality. These microbes and related members of the genus Streptococcus produce an array of toxins that act against human cells or tissues, resulting in impaired immune responses and subversion of host physiological processes to benefit the invading microorganism. This toxin repertoire includes haemolysins, proteases, superantigens and other agents that ultimately enhance colonization and survival within the host and promote dissemination of the pathogen.