Streptococcus
Streptococcus is a genus of gram-positive coccus or spherical bacteria that belongs to the family Streptococcaceae, within the order Lactobacillales, in the phylum Firmicutes. Cell division in streptococci occurs along a single axis, so as they grow, they tend to form pairs or chains that may appear bent or twisted.
Anaerobic organism
An anaerobic organism or anaerobe is any organism that does not require oxygen for growth. It may react negatively or even die if free oxygen is present. In contrast, an aerobic organism is an organism that requires an oxygenated environment. Anaerobes may be unicellular or m…
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What does Streptococcus salivarius cause?
As recently underscored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, S. salivarius and other viridans group streptococci are the most frequent causes of bacterial meningitis following spinal procedures such as anesthesia, accounting for up to 60% of cases.
What is Streptococcus salivarius used for?
Lozenges containing S. salivarius are marketed to support immunity against more virulent Streptococcus strains. People with this strain of naturally occurring S. salivarius on their tongue have been shown to have fewer Strep throat infections.
How do I know if I have Streptococcus salivarius?
Oral streptococci are primarily screened by colony morphology on mitis-salivarius agar plates (2), and are then identified by biochemical, immunological and genetic tests (1; 13; 11).
Is Streptococcus salivarius positive or negative?
Streptococcus salivarius, a gram-positive bacterium found in the human oral cavity, expresses flexible peritrichous fimbriae.
What probiotic kills strep?
[9] Studies based on the use of the intestinal probiotics Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG,[10] Lactobacillus reuteri, and Bifidobacterium[11] have each reported achieving reduced levels of Streptococcus mutans.
Is Streptococcus salivarius a probiotic?
Streptococcus salivarius K12 is an oral probiotic strain releasing two lantibiotics (salivaricin A2 and salivaricin B) that antagonize the growth of S. pyogenes, the most important bacterial cause of pharyngeal infections in humans also affected by episodes of acute otitis media.
What diseases are associated with streptococci?
Strep Throat.Scarlet Fever.Impetigo.Necrotizing Fasciitis.Cellulitis.Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome.Rheumatic Fever.Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis.
How do Streptococcus bacteria grow?
These organisms grow in pairs or chains and are gram-positive, nonmotile, nonspore-forming, and catalase-negative. They are facultatively anaerobic, nutritionally fastidious, and usually grow on complex media when supplemented with blood or serum.
How do you test for Streptococcus?
Your doctor may perform a rapid antigen test on a swab sample from your throat. This test can detect strep bacteria in minutes by looking for substances (antigens) in the throat. If the test is negative but your doctor still suspects strep, he or she might do a throat culture.
Does Streptococcus salivarius cause dental caries?
In the present study the salivarius group was significantly associated with caries, and appeared to be the primary pathogen in some subjects (Figure 3).
What color is Streptococcus salivarius?
Bacteria Collection: Streptococcus salivarius subsp. salivarius Additional InformationFermentation Tests Text:Sorbitol : -,Sucrose : +Temperature For Growth Text:at 37°C : YesColony Appearance Text:smooth : Yes,shiny : YesColony Color Text:grey : YesColony Text:circular : Yes,convex : Yes,entire : Yes11 more rows
When was S. salivarius discovered?
1874salivarius is an opportunistic pathogen capable of infecting immunocompromised patients [1]. When was it discovered? The first description of streptococcal infection was made by Austrian surgeon Theodor Billroth in 1874.
Does Streptococcus salivarius cause dental caries?
In the present study the salivarius group was significantly associated with caries, and appeared to be the primary pathogen in some subjects (Figure 3).
Does Streptococcus salivarius ferment lactose?
7.3. In raw or pasteurized milk, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as the thermoduric Streptococcus salivarius can metabolize lactose for growth. As these bacteria proliferate, they produce lactic acid as a by-product, thus decreasing the pH from the industry standard of 6.6 to 4.5.
What type of hemolysis is Streptococcus salivarius?
Thirty strains of Streptococcus salivarius were beta-haemolytic when initially isolated from throat swabs and, because they were also bacitracin sensitive, they could be confused with the pathogenic Streptococcus pyogenes on primary culture plates.
What color is Streptococcus salivarius?
Bacteria Collection: Streptococcus salivarius subsp. salivarius Additional InformationFermentation Tests Text:Sorbitol : -,Sucrose : +Temperature For Growth Text:at 37°C : YesColony Appearance Text:smooth : Yes,shiny : YesColony Color Text:grey : YesColony Text:circular : Yes,convex : Yes,entire : Yes11 more rows
What is the name of the bacteria that colonizes the pharyngeal cavity?
Streptococcus salivarius K12 (BLIS K12) is a probiotic strain producing the bacteriocins salivaricin A2 and salivaricin B, both of which strongly antagonize the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the most important bacterial cause of pharyngeal infections in humans. It successfully colonizes and exhibits persistence in the oral cavity, ...
What is the oral flora of an abscess?
The oral flora involved in abscesses of odontogenic origin is similar to that in adults. At birth, the oral cavity is sterile and uncolonized, but within the first few days of life it begins to become colonized with Streptococcus salivarius and subsequently the other bacteria that comprise those found in the adult population (e.g., Staphylococcus, Actinomyces, Nocardia, Bacteroides species). 17 The eruption of dentition allows for the anaerobic bacteria to populate the gingival sulci, and also allows Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis (responsible for a large portion of dental caries) to colonize the enamel. Untreated dental caries that progresses to the pulp creates a portal of entry into the root apices, alveolus, maxilla, mandible, and surrounding spaces as the disease progresses. Infections in the submandibular and lingual spaces in a child are infrequent, but necessitate the close attention of the treating team to ensure that the smaller, developing airway is not compromised ( Figure 29-2 ). Incision and drainage is recommended for the definitive abscess, as well as extraction or treatment of the offending tooth. Patients with developing, partially erupted third molars are at risk of developing pericoronitis and associated abscesses (most notably the adjacent pterygomandibular space). Impacted teeth that present an impediment to maintaining proper oral hygiene should be extracted, preferably before the development of infections or complications.
What is VSL-3?
VSL-3 is a proprietary mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacteriium brevis, Bifidobacteriium infantis, Bifidobacteriium longum, and Streptococcus salivarius ssp thermophilus, supplied in sachets containing 900 billion organisms each. When added to therapy with the 5-ASA derivative balsalazide, VSL-3 (one sachet twice a day) induced faster remission of active UC than balsalazide or mesalazine alone. 131 In an uncontrolled trial, two sachets of VSL-3 twice a day for 6 weeks as monotherapy yielded clinical and endoscopic remission of mild-to-moderate UC in 54% of patients treated. 132 VSL-3 also prevents relapse of pouchitis (postcolectomy inflammation of the ileal pouch), 133 with two sachets once a day producing remission rates far better than placebo over a 1-year period. 134 A survey done at the Cleveland Clinic, however, found poor compliance with this therapy in patients not participating in clinical trials. 135
What is thermophilic LAB?
The most important thermophilic LAB are Streptococcus salivarius ssp. thermophilus ( Sc. thermophilus) and species of Lactobacillus (Lb): bulgaricus, helveticus and lactis. They are used in those technologies where a temperature > 40 °C is used, such as yogurt, Mozzarella, Emmenthal, and Gruyere. Generally, these fermentations use blends of strains of Sc. thermophilus and a Lactobacillus (particulary Lb. bulgaricus ), there being an associative growth relationship between them: Sc. thermophilus produces formate that stimulates Lb. bulgaricus, and Lb. bulgaricus produces amino acids that stimulate Sc. thermophilus.
What is the relationship between Sc. thermophilus and Lactobacillus?
thermophilus and a Lactobacillus (particulary Lb. bulgaricus ), there being an associative growth relationship between them: Sc. thermophilus produces formate that stimulates Lb. bulgaricus, and Lb. bulgaricus produces amino acids that stimulate Sc. thermophilus.
Which bacteria produce lactose?
Yogurt bacteria, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus and L. delbrueckii sp. bulgaricus, produce the enzyme, lactose (beta-galactosidase), which hydrolyzes lactose to glucose and galactose. It is possible that they supply preformed lactase to the gut, thus allowing digestion of lactose.
Is S. thermophilus a species?
Taxonomic placement of S. thermophilus is representative of its recent deviation from a related ancestor. Originally S. thermophilus was considered a species in its own right by Orla-Jensen in 1919 [4]. S. thermophilus and Streptococcus salivarius are highly related (99% at 16S rRNA gene level). Therefore, there is still contention as to whether the two should be included as the same species or not. The taxonomic status of S. thermophilus had been in question for several years and some investigators proposed that it should be a subspecies of S. salivarius. In 1984, DNA–DNA hybridization experiments placed S. thermophilus under the umbrella of the salivarius species, as S. salivarius subspecies thermophilus [5]. Schleifer et al. conducted further DNA–DNA reassociation experiments under stringent conditions and determined that these strains probably deserved separate full species status and suggested that the name should be shifted back to its former one, though it is still widely reported as S. salivarius ssp. thermophilus [4]. This has not been fully ratified by taxonomic committees.
What is salivarius in dentistry?
S. salivarius is one of the earliest bacteria that colonizes the dental plaques of newborns [3]. S. salivarius is a primary colonizer of teeth, acting as a substrate for the attachment of other oral microbes. Oral microbiota form “hedgehog” structures in dental plaques, in which Streptococcus species make up the structure’s base and tip [4]. S. salivarius remains prevalent as a commensal in the human oropharyngeal tract throughout healthy individuals’ lives [3]. Streptococcus species also colonize the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients [5].
Who first described streptococcal infection?
The first description of streptococcal infection was made by Austrian surgeon Theodor Billroth in 1874. Then in 1879, Louis Pasteur isolated Streptococcus from the uterus and blood from women with post-labor uterine infections known as puerperal fever [2].
Is Streptococcus salivarius gram positive?
Streptococcus salivarius is a gram-positive, facultative anaerobic microorganism that is found in the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract of human beings. S. salivarius is spherical in shape, non-motile, non-sporing, and catalase negative. Although it is a common member of the oral microflora in healthy individuals, S. salivarius is an opportunistic pathogen capable of infecting immunocompromised patients [1].
Is salivarius a probiotic?
S. salivarius K12 was the first strain to be commercially developed as an oral probiotic and it helps to improve oral health and reduces halitosis, or bad breath [6]. In rare cases, S. salivarius can enter the blood stream and cause septicemia (systemic bacterial infection) or endocarditis (heart disease) [2].
Where is S. salivarius found?
Ecology. S. salivarius is found in the upper respiratory tract and oral cavity of the human body. While the bacterium is part of the normal flora in those environments, its entrance to the bloodstream causes it to become pathogenic (3).
What is salivarius?
S. salivarius is a facultative anaerobe (6) . Facultative anaerobes perform respiration in the presence of oxygen. In situations where oxygen is not readily available, facultative anaerobes can switch to fermentation or anaerobic respiration to generate ATP.
Why is salivarius purple?
salivarius is a Gram-positive cocci so Gram stain results would show a purple stain under the microscope due to crystal-violet dye’s affinity to the thick peptidoglycan layer. S. salivarius contains a peptidoglycan layer specifically called murein, which provides protection and rigidity, and helps shape the cell.
Does salivarius cause sepsis?
S. salivarius has been linked to cases of sepsis in people with neutropenia, a disease associated with a depleted level of white blood cells in the body (3). Sepsis occurs when the immune system becomes compromised, which allows the bacteria to attack when immune cells are weakened.
Does salivarius have heat resistant genes?
It is unknown whether the similar gene found in S. sa livarius have the same heat-resistant properties.
Is S. salivarius a Gram positive or negative?
S. salivarius is a spherical, Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic commensal bacterium that is both catalase and oxidase negative. As one of the first colonizers of the human oral cavity, upper respiratory tract, and gut after birth, S. salivarius is thought to contribute to immune homeostasis and regulate inflammatory response. Thus, the bacterium is most often harmless but considered an opportunistic pathogen (1).
Is salivarius good for ear infections?
S. salivarius K12 also has a beneficial effect on ear health in humans. A bacteriotherapy trial has been conducted which tested the potential benefits of S. salivarius by administering a nasal spray containing a strain of S. salivarius to children with recurrent acute otitis media, or middle ear infection (10).
Which bacteria produce lactose?
Yogurt bacteria, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus and L. delbrueckii sp. bulgaricus, produce the enzyme, lactose (beta-galactosidase), which hydrolyzes lactose to glucose and galactose. It is possible that they supply preformed lactase to the gut, thus allowing digestion of lactose.
What are the effects of betel nuts on Streptococcus mutans?
Betel nuts have an inhibitory effect on the growth of Streptococcus mutans and Fusobacterium nucleatum, and on glucan formation.
What is thermophilic LAB?
The most important thermophilic LAB are Streptococcus salivarius ssp. thermophilus ( Sc. thermophilus) and species of Lactobacillus (Lb): bulgaricus, helveticus and lactis. They are used in those technologies where a temperature > 40 °C is used, such as yogurt, Mozzarella, Emmenthal, and Gruyere. Generally, these fermentations use blends of strains of Sc. thermophilus and a Lactobacillus (particulary Lb. bulgaricus ), there being an associative growth relationship between them: Sc. thermophilus produces formate that stimulates Lb. bulgaricus, and Lb. bulgaricus produces amino acids that stimulate Sc. thermophilus.
What is the antimicrobial activity of Psoralea corylifolia Linn?
Bakuchiol, which is isolated from the seeds and leaves of Psoralea corylifolia Linn, shows antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.
Which family of bacteria causes mastitis?
Some species of the family Micrococc aceae (which is closely related, from a taxonomical point of view, to family Staphylococcaceae) may cause mastitis. They include Rothia dentocariosa, Rothia mucilaginosa, Kocuria rosea, and Kocuria kristinae, which are often involved in human opportunistic infections.
Does Leuconostoc contain inulosucrase?
Leuconostoc, Streptococcus, and Lactobacillus (specifically Lactobacillus gasseri) have been reported to contain inulosucrase, which demonstrates that they are capable of producing inulin and levan ( Anwar et al., 2010 ). A recent review summarized the health benefits of levan, including its ability to heal wounds and regenerate burnt tissue;
Is Streptococcus epidermidis a nosocomial pathogen?
Among CNS, Streptococcus epidermidis is the species most commonly associated with lactational mastitis in women ( Thomsen et al., 1985; Delgado et al., 2008, 2009b; Jiménez et al., 2008a; Arroyo et al., 2010 ). Normally, it is a commensal inhabitant of healthy human skin and mucosal surfaces but, also, it is a common nosocomial pathogen ( Otto, 2009 ). Living at the edge between commensalism and pathogenicity, S. epidermidis has developed interesting strategies to transform into a notorious pathogen ( Schoenfelder et al., 2010 ). Similarly as in humans, CNS have become the most common mastitis-causing agents in ruminants and other mammals in many countries ( Zhang and Maddox, 2000; Pyörälä and Taponen, 2009; Thorberg et al., 2009; Park et al., 2011a ). Although CNS are not as pathogenic as S. aureus and infection mostly remains subacute or subclinical, CNS are relevant as they can cause persistent infections, which result in increased milk SCCs, tissue damage, and decreased milk quality and secretion.
Where are streptococcus bacteria found?
Streptococcus bacteria is Gram-positive and are generally spherical in shape. They are commonly found in the mucous membrane of the mouth and respiratory tract etc where they have been associated with a number of diseases and infections including sepsis, pneumonia, and pharyngitis.
What is the majority of Streptococcus bacteria?
Streptococcus Bacterial Infection. With the exception of a few species (e.g. lactic acid group that is commonly associated with plant environment and dairy), the majority of Streptococcus bacteria occupy various parts of the human and animal bodies.
How do streptococci form?
When viewed under the microscope, Streptococci occur in chains (resembling a string of beads) or in pairs. As is the case with other bacteria, the general shape of Streptococci is maintained by the manner in which they propagate. In the case of Streptococcus pneumoniae, the synthesis of the peptidoglycan during propagation is suggested ...
Why are streptococcus cells elongated?
According to studies, this is also due to the fact that their division is along a successively parallel plane (which is perpendicular to their long axis).
How is cellulitis transmitted?
For the most part, it's transmitted by individuals with an active infection such as athlete’s foot providing a portal of entry for the bacteria. Cellulitis is normally characterized by skin redness and inflammation as well as pain and swelling. Bacteremia - Bacteremia occurs when the bacteria enter the bloodstream.
How big is a streptococci?
Shape. Like many other bacteria, Streptococcus bacteria are small in size, ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 micrometers in diameter. Here, however, the majority of species are less than 2um in size. With regards to shape, Streptococci may appear spherical or ovoid in shape.
Why do streptococci thrive?
For this reason, they tend to thrive through their relationship with animal hosts. Because of their relationship with some animals and human beings , Streptococci are widely distributed across the world (wherever their hosts exist).
Classification
Description and Significance
Genome Structure
Cell Structure
Metabolic Processes
Ecology
- S. salivarius is found in the upper respiratory tract and oral cavity of the human body. While the bacterium is part of the normal flora in those environments, its entrance to the bloodstream causes it to become pathogenic (3). Several strains of S. salivarius are able to interfere with respiratory pathogens and metabolites present in S. salivarius...
Pathology
Current Research
References