Methylation changes induced by alpha-hemolysin from Staphylococcus aureus in human primary Th1 lymphocytes

Th1 lymphocytes display distinct characteristics, particularly an increased presence of the TBX21, STAT4 transcription factors, along with cytokines such as IL2, and IFNG. This specific subset of immune cells plays a crucial role in protecting the human body against various pathogens. One of the most well-known virulence factors of Staphylococcus aureus is alpha-hemolysin. Hence, we conducted whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) analysis to unveil methylation changes induced by this protein in human Th1 lymphocytes. Experimental Design: CD4 positive primary cells isolated from human donors were differentiated into Th1 lymphocytes in the presence of 75 ng/ml of alpha-hemolysin for 5 days. Following this period, cells were collected, and DNA was isolated, bisulifide treated and library preparation was conducted.