Influence of streptolysin S on lymphocyte functions
J Pryjma1, W Hryniewicz2, K Pryjma1
1Branch Rabka, National Institute of Mother and Child, Polna 16, 34-410, Rabka, Poland.
Current Microbiology
|August 14, 2016
Summary
Streptolysin S is cytotoxic to lymphocytes, particularly T cells. This bacterial toxin impairs T cell functions, affecting immune responses in vitro and in vivo.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptolysin S is a cytotoxin produced by Streptococcus species.
- T lymphocytes play a crucial role in adaptive immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Streptolysin S on lymphocyte function.
- To determine the impact of Streptolysin S on T lymphocyte subpopulations and their functions.
- To assess the in vivo and in vitro immunomodulatory effects of Streptolysin S.
Main Methods:
- In vitro treatment of mouse and human lymphocytes with Streptolysin S.
- Assessment of lymphocyte responsiveness to phytohemagglutinin.
- Measurement of lymphokine production.
- In vivo studies in mice evaluating immune responses to T-dependent and T-independent antigens.
Main Results:
- Streptolysin S exhibited cytotoxicity towards lymphocytes, especially T cells.
- Pre-treatment with Streptolysin S reduced lymphocyte responsiveness to phytohemagglutinin and decreased lymphokine production.
- In vivo, Streptolysin S suppressed immune responses to T-dependent antigens but not T-independent antigens.
Conclusions:
- Streptolysin S impairs the function of T lymphocytes, potentially specific subpopulations.
- The findings suggest Streptolysin S as an immunomodulatory agent affecting T cell-mediated immunity.
