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Published on: October 24, 2013
Persistent chlamydiae: from cell culture to a paradigm for chlamydial pathogenesis
W L Beatty1, R P Morrison, G I Byrne
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706.
Abstract:
Chlamydiae are medically important bacteria responsible for a wide range of human infections and diseases. Repeated episodes of infection promote chronic inflammation associated with detrimental immune system-mediated pathologic changes. However, the true nature of chlamydial pathogenesis may encompass repeated infection superimposed upon persistent infection, which would allow for heightened immune reactivity. During the course of chlamydial infection, numerous host elaborated factors with inhibitory or modifying effects may cause alterations in the chlamydia-host cell relationship such that the organism is maintained in a nonproductive stage of growth. Abnormal or persistent chlamydiae have been recognized under a variety of cell culture systems. The numerous factors associated with altered growth suggest an innate flexibility in the developmental cycle of chlamydiae. This review evaluates in vitro studies of chlamydial persistence and correlates these model systems to features of natural chlamydial disease.
Insights
Chlamydia infections can lead to chronic inflammation. This review explores how persistent chlamydial infections, alongside repeated infections, may worsen disease by altering bacterial growth and host immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Chlamydiae are significant bacterial pathogens causing diverse human infections.
- Repeated chlamydial infections can exacerbate chronic inflammation and immune-mediated pathology.
- The pathogenesis of chlamydial diseases may involve persistent infections superimposed on acute episodes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review in vitro studies on chlamydial persistence.
- To correlate findings from experimental persistence models with natural chlamydial disease features.
- To explore the flexibility of the chlamydial developmental cycle.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of in vitro studies investigating chlamydial persistence.
- Analysis of host-derived factors influencing chlamydial growth and development.
- Correlation of cell culture models with clinical observations of chlamydial infections.
Main Results:
- Host factors can induce chlamydiae to enter a non-productive, persistent stage.
- Altered chlamydial growth forms are observed in various cell culture systems.
- Persistence mechanisms suggest inherent adaptability in the chlamydial life cycle.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydial persistence is a key factor in understanding disease progression.
- In vitro persistence models offer insights into chlamydial pathogenesis.
- The developmental plasticity of Chlamydia contributes to chronic and recurrent infections.
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