Methylation changes induced by alpha-hemolysin from Staphylococcus aureus in human primary Th17 lymphocytes.

Th17 lymphocytes display distinct characteristics, particularly an increased presence of the RORgammaT transcription factor, along with interleukins such as IL17A, IL17F, IL21, and IL22. This specific subset of immune cells plays a crucial role in protecting the human body against various pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus. One of the most well-known virulence factors of this bacterium is alpha-hemolysin. Hence, we conducted whole genome bisulfite sequencing analysis to unveil changes in methylation induced by this protein in human Th17 lymphocytes. Experimental Design: CD4 positive primary cells isolated from human donors were differentiated into Th17 lymphocytes in the presence of 200 ng/ml of alpha-hemolysin for 5 days. Following this period, cells were collected, and DNA was isolated for library preparation.