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Immune response to Staphylococcus aureus endophthalmitis in a rabbit model
R E Engstrom1, B J Mondino, B J Glasgow
1Ocular Inflammatory Disease Center, Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA School of Medicine 90024-1771.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Staphylococcus aureus endophthalmitis involves an immune response. Vitreous immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels to ribitol teichoic acid (RTA) increased, correlating with bacterial clearance in rabbits.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of bacterial endophthalmitis.
- Ribitol teichoic acid (RTA) is a key antigen in the S. aureus cell wall.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the humoral immune response in a rabbit model of S. aureus endophthalmitis.
- To measure antibody titers to RTA in ocular and serum samples.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits received intravitreal injections of S. aureus.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays measured IgG and IgA antibody titers to RTA in serum, tears, aqueous, and vitreous humor.
- Clinical, histopathologic, and microbiologic examinations were performed.
Main Results:
- Vitreous opacification and inflammation were observed from day 3 to 30.
- Bacterial load in the vitreous peaked at day 14 and then decreased.
- Vitreous IgG antibody levels to RTA significantly increased after day 14 and correlated inversely with bacterial presence.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates a robust local humoral immune response in S. aureus endophthalmitis.
- Elevated vitreous IgG titers to RTA are associated with spontaneous bacterial clearance.
- This suggests a critical role for the humoral immune system in resolving S. aureus endophthalmitis.