Effect of pili of Serratia marcescens on superoxide production and phagocytosis of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.

PURPOSE

To determine the role played by superoxide in renal scar formation following renal infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The piliation of bacteria was assessed for its capacity to interact with human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Two recombinant strains having either MS or MR pili of Serratia marcescens were constructed.

RESULTS

The MS-piliated strain stimulated superoxide production of PMNs twice as much as the MR- or nonpiliated strains did. The MS-piliated strain was more susceptible to phagocytosis than was the MR- or nonpiliated strain.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the MS-piliated strain stimulates superoxide production of PMNs associated with phagocytosis, which leads to tissue damage in infected organs.