Macrophage plasticity as a therapeutic target in tuberculosis

The macrophages contribute to host defense against intracellular pathogens such as mycobacteria. Mycobacteria interact with macrophages altering their polarization state, which propagates establishment of infection. Thus, molecular macrophage properties in mycobacterial infections are critical both for understanding the biology of the infections as well as identifying therapeutic targets. Here, we review recent advances in the understanding how altered macrophage polarization in mycobacterial infections may lead to the design of targeted therapies that may reprogram these macrophages for enhanced mycobactericidal function.