Emerging trends in the formation & function of tuberculosis granulomas

Abstract

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The granuloma is an elaborated aggregate of immune cells found in non-infectious as well asinfectious diseases. It is a hallmark of tuberculosis (TB). Predominantly thought as a host-drivenstrategy to constrain the bacilli and prevent dissemination, recent discoveries indicatethe granuloma can also be modulated into an efficient tool to promote microbial pathogenesis.The aim of future studies will certainly focus on better characterization of the mechanismsdriving the modulation of the granuloma functions. Here, we provide unique perspectivesfrom both the innate and adaptive immune system in the formation and the role of the TBgranuloma. As macrophages (Mϕs) comprise the bulk of granulomas, we highlight theemerging concept of Mϕ polarization and its potential impact in the microbicide response, andother activities, that may ultimately shape the fate of granulomas. Alternatively, we shed lighton the ability of B cells to influence inflammatory status within the granuloma.

Keywords

• Granulomatous Disease, Chronic
• Macrophages, Alveolar
• Mycobacterium Infections
• Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
• B cells