Several Routes to the Same Destination: Inhibition of Phagosome-Lysosome Fusion by Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Phagocytosis is necessary for antigen degradation and presentation, the activation of the adaptive immune response and the elimination of pathogenic micro-organisms. The phagosomal vacuole formed during phagocytosis requires a process of maturation that involves fusion with lysosomes, a decrease in luminal pH and the activation of the enzymes that eventually will destroy phagocytized micro-organisms. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This agent has developed various strategies to prevent phagosome maturation and persist indefinitely in latency mode. Herein, we review these strategies in the light of available experimental evidence. A better understanding of them may be essential in the development of more effective therapies against tuberculosis.