Chapter 39.1, Problem 4.2RIA

Summary Introduction

Pathogenic streptococci are characterized by a heterogeneous group of Gram-positive bacteria. One of the most important bacterial pathogens in this group is Streptococcus pyogenes. Streptococcus pyogenes belongs to group A, β-hemolytic streptococci that plays a major role in developing both invasive and non-invasive infections in humans. The pathogenic group A streptococci (GAS) secretes various exotoxins, which play a crucial role in developing bacterial virulence. The virulence factor enables the bacteria to attach to the host cells, evade the immune response, and thereby spreads the host cells by penetration.