What is the function of CAMP factor produced by group B beta-hemolytic streptococci?

What is the function of CAMP factor produced by group B beta-hemolytic streptococci?

• A. Hydrolyzes the B factor
• B. Reduces the zone of lysis formed by the streptococci
• C. Enlarges the zone of lysis formed by staphylococcal beta-hemolysin
• D. Causes a change in color

Answer: (C)

The CAMP factor produced by group B beta-hemolytic streptococci is known for its role in enhancing the lysis of red blood cells when in the presence of staphylococcal beta-hemolysin. Specifically, it works synergistically with beta-hemolysin to enlarge the zone of lysis in a laboratory setting. This characteristic is key to identifying group B streptococci, as it demonstrates their ability to interact with other bacterial enzymes and compounds, which is crucial for pathogenicity and can be observed during laboratory tests, such as the CAMP test. In this context, the other options do not correctly describe the function of the CAMP factor. Hydrolyzing the B factor, reducing the zone of lysis, or causing a change in color do not accurately reflect the actions or effects attributed to the CAMP factor, emphasizing why the selected answer aligns well with the established biological understanding of this component in bacteriology.

The CAMP factor produced by group B beta-hemolytic streptococci is known for its role in enhancing the lysis of red blood cells when in the presence of staphylococcal beta-hemolysin. Specifically, it works synergistically with beta-hemolysin to enlarge the zone of lysis in a laboratory setting. This characteristic is key to identifying group B streptococci, as it demonstrates their ability to interact with other bacterial enzymes and compounds, which is crucial for pathogenicity and can be observed during laboratory tests, such as the CAMP test.

In this context, the other options do not correctly describe the function of the CAMP factor. Hydrolyzing the B factor, reducing the zone of lysis, or causing a change in color do not accurately reflect the actions or effects attributed to the CAMP factor, emphasizing why the selected answer aligns well with the established biological understanding of this component in bacteriology.