Streptococcus pneumoniae (whole cell) (S. pneumoniae)

Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus, is a Gram-positive bacterium responsible for diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, otitis media, and sepsis. Key features include its thick peptidoglycan cell wall, polysaccharide capsule (with over 98 serotypes), and various surface proteins involved in adhesion and immune evasion. Virulence factors like pneumolysin and the capsule contribute to its pathogenicity. Its high genetic diversity and phase variation impact vaccine effectiveness and antibiotic resistance. As a whole cell target it includes all structural features: thick cell wall with unique modifications/residues important for survival/virulence; diverse capsular types critical for vaccine design/effectiveness; multiple surface-exposed proteins mediating adhesion/immune modulation.

Other names

Pneumococcus

Antibiotics target various bacterial processes (e.g., cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, DNA replication). Vaccines induce antibody production against capsular polysaccharides or surface proteins.