The two-component system NisK/NisR contributes to the virulence of Streptococcus suis serotype 2

Microbiol Res. 2014 Jul-Aug;169(7-8):541-6. doi: 10.1016/j.micres.2013.11.002. Epub 2013 Nov 14.

Abstract

Two-component signal-transduction systems (TCSTSs) may regulate some virulence factors in response to external stimuli, and thus allowing Streptococcus suis serotype 2 to interact with the host, promote survival, and cause disease. Here, a mutant of the NisKR TCSTS had attenuated virulence in vitro, as exemplified by lowered hemolytic activity, reduced adherence to epithelial cells, increased elimination by macrophages, and decreased resistance to killing by neutrophils. Results also showed that this system is important for the ability of S. suis serotype 2 to survive and proliferate in an in vivo mouse model. Thus, the NisKR system plays a significant role in pathogenesis, both in colonization and invasive disease.

Keywords: NisKR; Streptococcus suis serotype 2; Virulence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bacterial Proteins / genetics
  • Bacterial Proteins / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Streptococcus suis / genetics
  • Streptococcus suis / metabolism*
  • Streptococcus suis / pathogenicity*
  • Swine / microbiology*
  • Swine Diseases / microbiology*
  • Virulence
  • Virulence Factors / genetics
  • Virulence Factors / metabolism*

Substances

  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Virulence Factors