Modification of drug absorption by bacterial toxins—II

The effect of staphylococcal alpha toxin and Shigella dysenteriae toxin on the penetration of sodium salicylate through the placental barrier was investigated. Alpha toxin did not influence the penetration of sodium salicylate through the placental barrier, nor did it alter the histological appearance of the placenta. In contrast, Shigella dysenteriae toxin significantly increased the penetration of sodium salicylate through the placental barrier. The histological changes produced by the toxin help explain the observed effects on penetration.