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Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice treated with pentoxifylline
M Brzychcy1, M Klink, H Tchórzewski
1Department of Infectious Biology, University of Lodz, Poland.
Abstract:
The course of L. monocytogenes infection was followed in mice treated with pentoxifylline (POF), a known inhibitor of endogenous tumor necrosis factor (TNF) formation. Administration of POF caused a delay in L. monocytogenes elimination which was probably related to a reduction the listericidal activity of macrophages and to an attenuation of delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to Listeria antigens. In spite of this, some POF-treated mice were protected from lethal effects of virulent L. monocytogenes bacteria.
Insights
Pentoxifylline (POF) delayed Listeria monocytogenes elimination in mice by reducing macrophage activity and delayed-type hypersensitivity. However, POF treatment also protected some mice from lethal infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen causing significant human illness.
- Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays a role in host defense against infections.
- Pentoxifylline (POF) is known to inhibit endogenous TNF production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of pentoxifylline (POF) on the course of Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying POF's impact on L. monocytogenes infection, including its effects on macrophage activity and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH).
Main Methods:
- Mice infected with L. monocytogenes were treated with pentoxifylline (POF).
- The elimination of L. monocytogenes was monitored.
- Macrophage listericidal activity and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) to Listeria antigens were assessed.
Main Results:
- Pentoxifylline (POF) administration delayed the elimination of L. monocytogenes.
- This delay was associated with reduced macrophage listericidal activity and attenuated DTH response to Listeria antigens.
- Despite the delayed clearance, some POF-treated mice exhibited protection against lethal L. monocytogenes infection.
Conclusions:
- Pentoxifylline (POF) modulates the host immune response to Listeria monocytogenes infection.
- Inhibition of TNF formation by POF may impair crucial defense mechanisms like macrophage activity and DTH.
- POF demonstrates a complex role in L. monocytogenes infection, potentially offering protection against lethal outcomes despite delaying bacterial clearance.