Extracellular proteases of Acanthamoeba castellanii (encephalitis isolate belonging to T1 genotype) contribute to increased permeability in an in vitro model of the human blood-brain barrier

We have for the first time shown that Acanthamoeba produces human brain microvascular endothelial cells permeability, which can be blocked by PMSF. A metalloprotease of approx. molecular weight of 150 kDa is produced by A. castellanii (GAE isolate belonging to T1 genotype) and its role in the disease is suggested.