Identification of a DNA-cytosine methyltransferase that impacts global transcription to promote group B streptococcal vaginal colonization.

Group B (GBS) colonizes the female reproductive tract (FRT) in one-third of women, and carriage leads to numerous adverse pregnancy outcomes including the preterm premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and stillbirth. The presence of GBS in the FRT during pregnancy is also the largest predisposing factor for the transmission of GBS and invasive neonatal diseases, including pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. The factors contributing to GBS colonization are still being elucidated. Here, we show for the first time that GBS transcription is regulated by an orphan DNA cytosine methyltransferase (Dcm). Many GBS factors are regulated by Dcm, especially those involved in carbohydrate transport and metabolism. We show that GBS persistence in the FRT is dependent on the catabolism of sugars found on the vaginal mucin MUC5B. Collectively, this work highlights the regulatory importance of a DNA methyltransferase and identifies both host and bacterial factors required for GBS colonization.