The effects of Clostridium difficile crude toxins and purified toxin A on stripped rabbit ileal mucosa in Ussing chambers

Department of Microbiology, University of Birmingham, P.O. Box 363, Birmingham B15 2TT, * The General Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH Institute of Child Health, Francis Road, Birmingham B16 8ET Received May 12, 1986 Accepted June 10, 1986 Clostridium difficile crude toxins and purified toxin A had similar effects on stripped rabbit ileal mucosa in Ussing chambers. Both toxin preparations caused secretion of sodium and chloride ions by increasing serosa to mucosa (s m) fluxes. Transmural potential difference and resistance decreased after toxin treatment. Onset of changes in electrical measurements and ion fluxes coincided with onset of histological changes. The response to theophylline was greatly reduced in toxintreated tissue compared with control tissue. Correspondence should be sent to Dr J. Stephen, Department of Microbiology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT.