Detection of Mycolactone A/B in Mycobacterium ulcerans-Infected Human Tissue.

Background: Mycobacterium ulcerans disease (Buruli ulcer) is a neglected tropical disease common amongst children in rural West Africa. Animal experiments have shown that tissue destruction is caused by a toxin called mycolactone.

Methodology/principal Findings: A molecule was identified among acetone-soluble lipid extracts from M.