SupplementaryData_Anjos et al 2024
Description
BACKGROUND: Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) is an emerging pathogen closely related to Streptococcus pyogenes, causing a range of infections from mild to severe, including necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome. Specific pulsed-field electrophoresis (PFGE)-defined clones are often linked to human infections, but PFGE is time-consuming, costly, and results can vary between laboratories. OBJECTIVES: This study explores the use of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to identify biomarkers that distinguish SDSE strains with different PFGE patterns. METHODS: MALDI-TOF MS spectra were generated from SDSE strains with distinct PFGE patterns (A, B, and non-A/non-B) using a Microflex LT mass spectrometer (Bruker) and standardized with BioNumerics software v7.6. FINDINGS: Specific peaks in the MALDI-TOF MS spectra successfully differentiated SDSE strains with PFGE patterns A, B, and non-A/non-B. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights the utility of MALDI-TOF MS not only for accurate species identification but also as a powerful tool for elucidating the diversity of SDSE strains and understanding the epidemiological relationships among different strains. The implementation of this rapid approach to identify bacterial-specific clones enhances our understanding of the role of SDSE in human infection and has the potential to shape future research and clinical practices. Key words: Streptococcus dysgalactiae subs. equisimilis, MALDI-TOF, biomarkers, clonality.