Fusobacterium nucleatum T18 aggregates human mononuclear cells and inhibits their PHA-stimulated proliferation

S Kinder Haake1, R A Lindemann

  • 1Section of Periodontics Biology, UCLA School of Dentistry, USA.

Insights

Fusobacterium nucleatum aggregates human mononuclear cells, inhibiting their proliferation and IL-2 receptor expression. This interaction may play a role in periodontal disease pathogenesis.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Periodontology

Background:

  • Fusobacterium nucleatum exhibits variable effects on human mononuclear cells.
  • Understanding F. nucleatum's interaction with immune cells is crucial for periodontal disease research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the interaction between human mononuclear cells and F. nucleatum.
  • To determine the impact of F. nucleatum on mononuclear cell proliferation and immune marker expression.

Main Methods:

  • Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from healthy donors.
  • PBMC aggregation with F. nucleatum strains was assessed.
  • Inhibition assays using L-arginine, L-lysine, and heat-treated bacteria were performed.
  • DNA synthesis and IL-2 receptor alpha expression in PHA-stimulated PBMCs were measured.

Main Results:

  • F. nucleatum, but not control bacteria, induced PBMC aggregation.
  • Aggregation was inhibited by L-arginine, L-lysine, and heat treatment.
  • F. nucleatum T18 inhibited DNA synthesis and reduced IL-2 receptor alpha expression in PHA-stimulated PBMCs.
  • Strain T18 aggregated purified T-cells and monocytes.

Conclusions:

  • F. nucleatum aggregates PBMCs, inhibiting their proliferation and decreasing IL-2 receptor expression.
  • This immune modulation by F. nucleatum may contribute to the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases.

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