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Bacterial weaponry that causes stillbirth revealed

Strep B emits tiny balloons containing toxic proteins

Streptococcus B

BAD BUDDIES  Toxic balloons bud from Strep B. A new study in pregnant mice shows these fluid-filled sacs can cause inflammation, premature delivery and stillbirth.

 

M.V. Surve et al/PLOS Pathogens 2016

By Amy McDermott

- More than 2 years ago

In pregnant women, a normally benign bacterium emits tiny toxic balloons that can cause premature labor and stillbirth, a new study finds.