Staphylococcal α‐toxin causes increased tracheal epithelial permeability

摘要: Staphylococcus aureus is an important cause of pulmonary infections. The role S. α-toxin as a virulence factor unclear. We hypothesized that airway epithelium target and exposure to results in damage the epithelium. To examine hypothesis capable independently producing measured by permeability morphometry, isolated whole mouse trachea test apparatus was developed. In vitro epithelial (P) calculated digital micrographs were analyzed morphometrically. Purified produced significant increase tracheal P (P < 0.05). Morphometric analysis revealed ratio adherent attached basement membrane divided total length decreased dose-dependent manner with 1 µg/ml 10 developed novel for measurement damage. Increased separation from occurred after exposure. conclude mammalian α-toxin. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2006; 41:1146–1152. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.