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An immunogenetic and molecular basis for differences in outcomes of invasive group A streptococcal infections

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Tevfik Dorak

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Abstract

The role of host genetic factors in conferring predisposition or protection in infectious diseases has become evident. Infection with group A streptococci causes a wide spectrum of disease ranging from pharyngitis to streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. The release of inflammatory cytokines triggered by streptococcal superantigens has a pivotal role in invasive streptococcal disease. However, individuals infected with the same strain can develop very different manifestations. We report here that the immunogenetics of the host influence the outcome of invasive streptococcal infection, and demonstrate the underlying mechanism for these genetic associations. Specific human leukocyte antigen class II haplotypes conferred strong protection from severe systemic disease, whereas others increased the risk of severe disease. Patients with the DRB1*1501/DQB1*0602 haplotype mounted significantly reduced responses and were less likely to develop severe systemic disease (P < 0.0001). We propose that human leukocyte antigen class II allelic variation contributes to differences in severity of invasive streptococcal infections through their ability to regulate cytokine responses triggered by streptococcal superantigens.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Dorak MT; Kotb M; Norrby-Teglund A; McGeer A; El-Sherbini H; Khurshid A; Green K; Peeples J; Wade J; Thomson G; Schwartz B; Low DE

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Nature Medicine

Year: 2002

Volume: 8

Issue: 12

Pages: 1398-1404

ISSN (print): 1078-8956

ISSN (electronic): 1546-170X

Publisher: Nature Publishing Group

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/nm800

DOI: 10.1038/nm800

PubMed id: 12436116

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