Intelligent Mechanisms of Macrophage Apoptosis Subversion by Mycobacterium

Abstract: Macrophages are one of the first innate defense barriers and play an indispensable role in
communication between innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to restricted
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. The macrophages can undergo programmed cell death
(apoptosis), which is a crucial step to limit the intracellular growth of bacilli by liberating them into
extracellular milieu in the form of apoptotic bodies. These bodies can be taken up by the
macrophages for the further degradation of bacilli or by the dendritic cells, thereby leading to the
activation of T lymphocytes. However, Mtb has the ability to interplay with complex signaling
networks to subvert macrophage apoptosis. Here, we describe the intelligent strategies of Mtb
inhibition of macrophages apoptosis. This review provides a platform for the future study of
unrevealed Mtb anti-apoptotic mechanisms and the design of therapeutic interventions.