Streptococcal superantigens and the return of scarlet fever |
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| Authors: | Jacklyn R. Hurst Stephan Brouwer Mark J. Walker John K. McCormick |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada;2. Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia;3. Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Nanyang Technological University, SINGAPORE |
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| Abstract: | Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus) is a globally disseminated and human-adapted bacterial pathogen that causes a wide range of infections, including scarlet fever. Scarlet fever is a toxin-mediated disease characterized by the formation of an erythematous, sandpaper-like rash that typically occurs in children aged 5 to 15. This infectious disease is caused by toxins called superantigens, a family of highly potent immunomodulators. Although scarlet fever had largely declined in both prevalence and severity since the late 19th century, outbreaks have now reemerged in multiple geographical regions over the past decade. Here, we review recent findings that address the role of superantigens in promoting a fitness advantage for S. pyogenes within human populations and discuss how superantigens may be suitable targets for vaccination strategies. |
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