| abstract |
Methods and compositions for cloning and expressing Streptococcus pyogenes M protein genes, including the types 5, 6 and 24 gene in single cell host organisms. The streptococcal protein M produced using the recombinant DNA techniques described herein may have a composition allowing it to be used as an immunogen in vaccines intended to provide protection against infections due to S. pyogenes. The protein M gene can also be used as a molecular probe, allowing precise identification of streptococci in infected body tissues and fluids. |