Group A Streptococcal Infections Biology and Genetics

Through research, health experts have learned that there are more than 120 different strains of group A streptococci bacteria, each producing its own unique proteins. Some of these proteins are responsible for specific GAS diseases. With the support of NIAID, scientists have determined the genetic sequence, or DNA code, for five strains of the group A streptococcus bacterium. By studying its genes, scientists can learn which proteins are responsible for virulence—crucial information that will lead to new and improved drugs and vaccines.