The role of different K antigens of Escherichia coli in phagocytosis by polymorphonuclear leukocytes

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Abstract
SUMMARY. The importance of K antigens from six strains of Escherichia coli for the interaction with polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) was studied. The major factor influencing this interaction was the ability of strains to activate complement by the classical route during opsonisation, this process being reduced for most K-positive strains. Interference of K antigens with the functioning of common pili as adhesins of eukaryotic cells was not observed nor a toxic effect of K antigens on PMNL.