Abstract:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the primary causative agent of perinatal maternal and neonatal infections and one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality. The transition of GBS from a colonization state to an invasive infection is a complex process, and elucidating its molecular epidemiological characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms is crucial for preventing and treating infections caused by this bacterium. With technological advancements, GBS detection has evolved from traditional methods to high-throughput sequencing technology, enabling in-depth research on its epidemiological typing and virulence genes. Furthermore, in response to the shortcomings of the current intrapartum antimicrobial prophylaxis (IAP) strategy for antenatal GBS screening, novel prevention and treatment methods are continuously emerging, such as vaccines, probiotic therapy, allicin application and bacteriophage therapy, providing new insights for GBS prevention and treatment. This study comprehensively reviews the molecular epidemiological characteristics, pathogenic mechanisms, advancements in detection methods and research trends in prevention and treatment of GBS, aiming to provide scientific reference and theoretical support for the formulation of GBS infection prevention and treatment strategies.