58 / 2024-10-23 21:33:50

Tackling Zoonotic Streptococcosis for a Safer Future

Swine streptococcosis is a zoonotic disease, transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or consumption of unpasteurized animal products. It can lead to meningitis with a high mortality rate. Despite the use of β-lactam antibiotics, the prognosis remains poor, often resulting in hearing loss and visual impairment. Our studies aim to identify pathogenic virulence factors to improve clinical detection and treatment strategies, which can interrupt transmission pathways and sources to effectively prevent disease spread between humans and animals. We focus on mechanisms how swine-isolated streptococcus invades the blood-brain barrier and proliferates in cerebrospinal fluid. Specifically, Key virulence factors, BifA and SzM, were investigated as targets for detecting high-virulence SEZ strains. Additionally, chimeric anti-SzM monoclonal antibodies were developed to effectively treat SEZ infections, aiding bacterial clearance and preventing organ damage.In summary, our findings provide valuable insights for managing swine streptococcosis and its zoonotic implications.