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Lipopolysaccharide in cells infected by Chlamydia trachomatis
S Campbell1, S J Richmond, P S Yates
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of South Manchester, West Didsbury, UK.
Microbiology (Reading, England)
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Chlamydial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is expressed on the host cell surface during infection, potentially spreading to neighboring cells. This study confirms LPS presence on host cells, not just within inclusions, using immunofluorescence and radioimmunoassays.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- The expression of chlamydial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in eukaryotic host cells remains a subject of debate.
- Understanding LPS localization is crucial for elucidating Chlamydia pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of chlamydial LPS on the surface of infected host cells.
- To examine the dynamics of LPS expression during the chlamydial developmental cycle and its potential transmission.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of McCoy cell line, human endometrial, and amniotic epithelial cells with Chlamydia trachomatis serotype E.
- Immunofluorescence microscopy of air-dried host cells to visualize LPS distribution.
- Radioimmunoassays to quantify LPS levels in infected cell monolayers.
Main Results:
- Chlamydial LPS was detected on the surface of infected host cells, particularly near the chlamydial inclusion.
- LPS was observed at points of contact between infected and uninfected neighboring cells, forming immunofluorescent plaques.
- Cell-surface-associated and inclusion-associated LPS levels increased for up to 3 days post-infection before declining.
Conclusions:
- This study provides evidence for the expression of chlamydial LPS on the host cell surface.
- LPS may be transmitted to adjacent cells, contributing to the spread of infection.
- The findings challenge previous assumptions about LPS localization during Chlamydia infection.