2020
Detection and analysis of Streptococcus zooepidemicus, a recently emergent pathogen of Pigs in PA
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Contributor/Checkoff:
Pennsylvania Soybean Promotion Board
Category:
Feed
Keywords:
Animal healthAnimal nutritionNutrient management
Parent Project:
This is the first year of this project.
Lead Principal Investigator:
Suresh Kuchipudi, Pennsylvania State University
Co-Principal Investigators:
Project Code:
R2020-03; OSP 213542
Contributing Organization (Checkoff):
Pennsylvania Soybean Promotion Board
$38,281
Institution Funded:
Pennsylvania State University
$38,281
Brief Project Summary:

Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus is a bacterium which has become a growing concern in the swine industry worldwide. If diagnosed early, its spread can be controlled through antibiotic therapy and/or culling followed by rigorous disinfection. However, if not detected in a timely manner, mortality can quickly reach 30 to 50 percent. This project aims to optimize a PCR procedure for identification of Strep zoo in swine, including determining appropriate samples for reliable detection. Due to the strong possibility of genetic mutation driving higher virulence, this research also characterizes the strains in PA by whole genome sequencing.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, extension agents, livestock farmers, swine industry

Information And Results
Project Deliverables

Whole genome sequence analysis of Strep Zoo isolates from Pennsylvania
Development of a novel molecular diagnostic assay for the specific and rapid detection of virulent strep zoo isolates

Final Project Results

Updated March 24, 2021:
1. We completed whole-genome sequences of two outbreak isolates of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus from Pennsylvania. The whole genomes have been deposited to Genbank and announced in Microbial resource announcements https://mra.asm.org/content/9/42/e00974-20
2. A highly specific and sensitive real-time PCR assay for the specific detection of virulent S. zooepidemicus by targeting the SzM gene has been developed. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2021.604675/full
3. The PCR assay is currently available through Penn State Animal DIagnosctic Laboratory

View uploaded report PDF file

S. zooepidemicus is a zoonotic emerging pathogen with wide host range. Differentiation of virulent strains of Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus from avirulent strains plays a critical role in controlling swine mortality and adopting better biosecurity measures. We developed a highly specific probe-based real-time PCR assay for the detection of virulent S. zooepidemicus by targeting the SzM gene. This assay is useful to distinguish between virulent and avirulent strains of S. zooepidemicus

The United Soybean Research Retention policy will display final reports with the project once completed but working files will be purged after three years. And financial information after seven years. All pertinent information is in the final report or if you want more information, please contact the project lead at your state soybean organization or principal investigator listed on the project.