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Ingestion of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli by human peritoneal mesothelial
C E Visser1, J J Brouwer-Steenbergen, I L Schadee-Eestermans
1Department of Cell Biology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
In the present study we examined whether mesothelial cells can ingest and digest bacteria. The results showed that all strains were ingested. Ingested staphylococci proliferated abundantly, and only a few were digested. Escherichia coli, however, was digested during the first 8 h, whereafter the mesothelial cells disintegrated and proliferation of bacteria could be observed. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Insights
Mesothelial cells ingest bacteria, but struggle to digest Staphylococcus. Escherichia coli initially digested, but later caused cell disintegration and bacterial growth.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mesothelial cells form a protective lining in body cavities.
- Their role in direct bacterial interaction is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of mesothelial cells to ingest and digest bacteria.
- To compare the cellular response to different bacterial strains.
Main Methods:
- In vitro co-culture of mesothelial cells with Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli.
- Microscopic observation and bacterial enumeration.
Main Results:
- All tested bacterial strains were ingested by mesothelial cells.
- Staphylococcus proliferated extensively with minimal digestion.
- Escherichia coli was initially digested, but subsequently led to mesothelial cell disintegration and bacterial overgrowth.
Conclusions:
- Mesothelial cells exhibit differential responses to bacterial ingestion.
- The interaction with Escherichia coli can compromise mesothelial barrier integrity.
- Findings suggest potential implications for infections involving mesothelial surfaces.
