Streptococcus pyogenes Activates Human Platelets via Streptolysin S-Mediated Calcium Ion Influx.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus, GAS) is an exclusively human pathogen. It causes a wide spectrum of diseases, ranging from mild infections such as pharyngitis to severe life-threatening conditions such as streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). Thrombocytopenia is a common feature of STSS and is associated with severe outcome. GAS produce a plethora of virulence factors, including streptolysin S (SLS), which has lytic as well as immunomodulatory properties. However, its role in platelet activation remains unclear.

Methods

Washed human platelets were infected with GAS wild-type and SLS-deficient mutant (ΔsagA) strains. Platelet activation was assessed by measuring degranulation (CD62P expression). The role of calcium influx and the involvement o

SUBMITTER: Riegner A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11952823 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature