Download Infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes range from

Shiranee Sriskandan
Infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes range from pharyngitis to invasive, lethal necrotising
fasciitis. There is a strong imperative to increase research in this area, especially as the rate of
invasive disease in the UK surged at the start of 2009. Research into the pathogenesis of S. pyogenes
infection is bolstered by our collaboration with epidemiologists in the Health Protection Agency,
with the Sanger Institute, and by our direct involvement in patient care.
Understanding the pathogenesis of infection transmission and progression will help to determine
the best management strategies for preventing transmission and improving treatment in the future.
Neutrophil recruitment is impaired during lethal S. pyogenes disease and this is in part related to the
novel enzyme, SpyCEP (S. pyogenes Cell Envelope Proteinase) made by the bacterium, a protease
that was discovered in this laboratory. Clearance of S. pyogenes is, however, impeded by a plethora
of virulence mechanisms employed by the bacterium including hyaluronic acid capsule, proteins that
bind to or inactivate complement and antibacterial peptides, and enzymes that degrade
immunoglobulins. Projects addressing bacterial evasion of immune defence, as well as the role of
superantigens in streptococcal infection are available in the laboratory.
The clinical specialty relevant to: Infectious diseases, microbiology, plastic surgery.
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