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Modulation of phagocyte apoptosis by bacterial pathogens.
1Laboratory of Human Bacterial Pathogenesis, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT 59840, USA. fdeleo@niaid.nih.gov
Summary
Bacteria can manipulate programmed cell death in immune cells called phagocytes. While this can harm the host, accelerated neutrophil apoptosis aids infection resolution, a key bacterial survival strategy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Phagocytic leukocytes (neutrophils, macrophages) are crucial for innate immunity against bacteria.
- Phagocytosis triggers antimicrobial responses, but bacteria can manipulate host cell death (apoptosis) for pathogenesis.
- Pathogen-induced macrophage apoptosis can impair host immunity, while neutrophil apoptosis is vital for infection resolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of how bacteria modulate phagocyte apoptosis.
- To explore the role of bacteria-induced neutrophil apoptosis in resolving infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on phagocyte apoptosis and bacterial pathogenesis.
- Analysis of mechanisms by which bacteria influence leukocyte cell death pathways.
Main Results:
- Some bacterial pathogens deliberately alter phagocytosis-induced neutrophil apoptosis to promote their survival.
- Accelerated neutrophil apoptosis following bacterial interaction is essential for effective infection resolution.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial manipulation of phagocyte apoptosis is a significant pathogenic mechanism.
- Targeting bacteria-induced neutrophil apoptosis could be a therapeutic strategy for infectious diseases.