ABSTRACT Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can be internalized by epithelial cells. including keratinocytes from human skin or pharyngeal epithelium. Internalization of GAS by epithelial cells has been postulated both to play a role in host defense and to provide a sanctuary site for GAS survival. The cholesterol-binding cytolysin streptolysin O (SLO) appears to enhance virulence in part by... https://www.roneverhart.com/Donitsirauta-MDI-Donut-900/