Streptococcus suis is a bacterium of great relevance to the swine industry, associated with cases of meningitis, septicemia, pneumonia, arthritis, and endocarditis in pigs, in addition to representing an important zoonotic agent. The enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) is widely used as a molecular and antigenic marker for the identification and diagnosis of this bacterium.
GDH is an enzyme involved in nitrogen metabolism, playing an essential role in the conversion of glutamate into a-ketoglutarate and ammonia. In the diagnostic context, the gene encoding GDH is highly conserved among Streptococcus suis strains, making it a reliable target for laboratory tests based on molecular methods.
The transmission of Streptococcus suis occurs primarily through direct contact between animals via respiratory secretions, skin wounds, and mucous membranes, and is favored by factors such as stress, high stocking density, management failures, and co-infections. Young piglets are the most susceptible, especially during the post-weaning period.
Clinical manifestations associated with Streptococcus suis infection include neurological signs, such as tremors, incoordination, and seizures, as well as fever, apathy, respiratory distress, and increased mortality. In humans, the infection can cause meningitis, septicemia, and permanent hearing loss, reinforcing the importance of sanitary control within herds.
Laboratory diagnosis based on the detection of GDH can be performed using molecular techniques, such as PCR and RT-PCR, as well as immunological methods. These tests allow for the rapid and specific identification of the agent, contributing to the adoption of immediate sanitary measures and the control of the bacterium’s spread.
The prevention and control of Streptococcus suis are based on good biosecurity practices, proper management, the reduction of stress factors, co-infection control, and continuous laboratory monitoring. The use of reliable diagnostic tools, such as GDH detection, is fundamental for epidemiological surveillance, the protection of animal health, and the reduction of public health risks.
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In this context, Bioperfectus’ Streptococcus suis (GDH) rapid test serves as a practical screening tool to support sanitary surveillance in swine herds. The application of the rapid test enables the agile identification of the agent directly in the field or in laboratory routines, assisting in immediate decision-making, such as animal segregation, management adjustments, treatment targeting, and the referral of samples for confirmation by molecular methods. In this way, the rapid test complements conventional diagnostic methods, contributing to the early detection of Streptococcus suis infection, the reduction of bacterial spread, and the strengthening of control strategies, with positive impacts on both animal and public health.
