Glatiramer acetate stimulates phagocytosis and intracellular killing of Escherichia coli by macrophages and microglial cells

As a consequence of the increased threat by multi-resistant bacteria, immunomodulators with few side effects, which are able to stimulate the phagocytosis and killing of bacteria, are highly desirable. GA stimulates the phagocytosis and intracellular killing of pathogenic bacteria. Due to its low toxicity even during long-term treatment, GA is an excellent candidate to increase the resistance of patients to infection, potentially reducing the amount of antibiotics prescribed.