Mycobacterium leprae-induced nerve damage: direct and indirect mechanisms

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Héctor Serrano-Coll1,2, Lina Salazar-Peláez1,2, Liliana Acevedo-Saenz1,2

  • 1Basic Science Research Group, School of Medicine, CES University, Calle 10 A No. 22-04, Medellín, Colombia.

Pathogens and Disease
|July 28, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, damages nerves via Schwann cell infection and immune responses. Understanding these mechanisms aids early detection and treatment of this chronic infectious disease.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affects skin and peripheral nerves.
  • Nerve damage in leprosy is a significant factor contributing to disability.
  • The precise mechanisms underlying nerve damage are not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of Notch signaling pathway activation in Schwann cells following Mycobacterium leprae infection.
  • To explore potential direct and indirect mechanisms contributing to nerve damage in leprosy.
  • To identify targets for early detection and mitigation strategies for leprosy.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro studies involving Mycobacterium leprae infection of Schwann cells.
  • Analysis of signaling pathway activation, specifically the Notch pathway.
  • Consideration of host immune response and genetic factors in nerve damage.

Main Results:

  • Hypothesized that Mycobacterium leprae infection activates the Notch signaling pathway in Schwann cells.
  • Proposed that Notch pathway activation in Schwann cells may lead to glial cell dedifferentiation.
  • Acknowledged that immune response and host genetic susceptibility also contribute to nerve damage.

Conclusions:

  • Activation of the Notch signaling pathway in Schwann cells is a potential mechanism for nerve damage in leprosy.
  • A comprehensive understanding of both direct (M. leprae-Schwann cell interaction) and indirect (immune/genetic) mechanisms is crucial.
  • Further research can lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions for leprosy.

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