The genus 'streptococcus' is huge and encompasses a large variety of human and animal pathogenic and commensal bacteria. It is not known why some species are virulent and others not, and why even within one species, the virulence potential varies. These and other key questions are addressed in this timely book which draws on the recent advances in streptococcal genomics to provide an up-to-date coherent picture of the molecular and cellular biology of streptococci. With contributions from internationally renowned streptococcal researchers, this comprehensive book reviews all of the important...