Peptide which can recruit, activate and subsequently lyse human neutrophils, thus eliminating the main cellular defense against infection. Stimulates the secretion of the chemotactic factor interleukin-8 (IL-8). Showed the most pronounced pro-inflammatory and cytolytic activities in the host, thus contributing greatly to virulence and possibly to the development of disease. Up-regulated by agr. Peptide production is higher in most prevalent community-associated MRSA strains than in hospital-associated MRSA strains. Belongs to the phenol-soluble modulin alpha peptides family.