Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS)

Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus, GBS) is a Gram-positive, β-hemolytic, catalase-negative, non-motile coccus that forms chains. It commonly colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of healthy adults but can cause severe invasive infections in neonates, pregnant women, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. It is the leading cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis worldwide. GBS possesses several virulence factors, including a polysaccharide capsule (serotypes Ia, Ib, II–IX), cell surface adhesins, and toxins such as beta-hemolysin. In humans, GBS is mainly targeted by β-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins) and is also significant in veterinary medicine due to its role in bovine mastitis[1][5][3][7].

Other names

Group B streptococcusGBSLancefield Group B streptococcus

Cell wall synthesis inhibition (β-lactam antibiotics); Protein synthesis inhibition (clindamycin)