Infective endocarditis: The effect of liposomes as carrier substance for alpha sub(1)-antitrypsin and ampicillin

Little attention has been paid to the possible role of polymorphonuclear leucocytes in damage to the heart valves. It was postulated that if the elastases set free from these leucocytes could be neutralised, this would prevent damage to the heart valves. Alpha sub(1)-antitrypsin ( alpha sub(1)-AT) in liposomes was used to neutralise elastases. This process on its own and in various combinations with ampicillin were compared in animal models. A statistically significant difference (t-test; P < 0.005, with Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons) was found in vegetation size in the groups receiving ampicillin in liposomes, but the hypothesis that alpha sub(1)-AT might reduce valvular damage was not proven.