Introduction to the immunology of tuberculosis

This paper serves to introduce some concepts of modern immunobiology that are relevant to the understanding of the complex interactions between mycobacteria and the infected host. Six topics are discussed: (1) the phenotypic markers and functions of human T lymphocyte subsets; (2) the nature of antigen receptors on T cells; (3) antigen processing and presentation; (4) adhesion molecules that facilitate cellular interactions; (5) surface molecules on phagocytes that promote the entry of pathogens into cells; and (6) compartmentalization of the immune system in vivo.