The SaPIs: Mobile Pathogenicity Islands of Staphylococcus

The SaPIs are 15- to 17-kb mobile pathogenicity islands in staphylococci. They usually carry two or more superantigens and are responsible for most superantigen-related human diseases, especially staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. SaPIs are extremely common in Staphylococcus aureus, with all but one of the sequenced genomes containing one or more. The SaPIs have a highly conserved overall genome organization, parallel to that of typical temperate phages. Each occupies a specific chromosomal site from which it is induced to excise and replicate by one or more specific staphylococcal phages. Following replication, the SaPI DNA is efficiently encapsidated into infectious small-headed phage-like particles, resulting in extremely high transfer frequencies.