Graphical Abstract

 Graphical abstract 

(a). The classic ‘fried-egg’ colonies are commonly seen with the growth of Mycoplasma pneumoniae on agar. (b). Scanning electron micrograph of M. pneumoniae demonstrates spindle-shaped cells with attachment organelles. M. pneumoniae is equipped with a repertoire of virulence factors, which include the production of the community-acquired respiratory distress syndrome toxin, formation of H202 and H2S, the immunoglobulin-binding protein of Mycoplasma, adhesion and antigenic variability via the P1 adhesin and associated surface proteins and the ability to form biofilms on surfaces.

 

 

Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia among school-aged children and young adults. Infections occur throughout the year but tend to surge during winter months across Europe. A characteristic epidemic cycle, where a substantial surge in the number of infections occurs, is seen approximately every 1–4 years and hypothesized to be driven by changes in immunity and a shift in circulating variants. Once thought to be an organism of low virulence, it has now been found to possess several virulence factors, including toxin production, biofilm formation and evasion of antibody-mediated immunity. The lack of a cell wall and reduced metabolic pathways limit the options for antibiotic treatment. Acquired macrolide resistance is a growing concern, with >80% of cases in China being macrolide-resistant. Although efforts have been made to develop a vaccine, there are still substantial hurdles to overcome in relation to vaccine-enhanced disease, which results from an inappropriate immune response among vaccinated individuals.

Received: 24/02/2024 Accepted: 22/09/2024 Published Online: 30/10/2024

Funding

This study was supported by the: Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) (Award IICT) Principle Award Recipient: PatrickM Meyer Sauteur European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (Award ESCMID SG Collaboration Grant 2024) Principle Award Recipient: PatrickM Meyer Sauteur European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (Award ESCMID SG Collaboration Grant 2024) Principle Award Recipient: MichaelL Beeton European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (Award ESCMID Study Group Grant) Principle Award Recipient: MichaelL Beeton

© 2024 The Authors

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2024-10-30

2024-10-31

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