Chlamydia trachomatis Immune Evasion via Downregulation of MHC Class I Surface Expression Involves Direct and Indirect Mechanisms
2011
Chlamydia trachomatis and Immune Evasion
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Ibana Joyce A., Schust Danny J., Sugimoto Jun, Nagamatsu Takeshi, Greene Sheila J., Quayle Alison J.
Primary Institution: Louisiana State University Health Science Center
Hypothesis
MHC class I downregulation in human endocervical cells may occur through direct and bystander mechanisms.
Conclusion
C. trachomatis infection leads to decreased MHC class I surface expression in both infected and nearby uninfected cells.
Supporting Evidence
- C. trachomatis can evade immune detection by downregulating MHC class I expression.
- Uninfected cells exposed to infected cells also show reduced MHC class I expression.
- Soluble factors from infected cells contribute to the downregulation of MHC class I.
Takeaway
Chlamydia can hide from the immune system by making it harder for cells to show they are infected, which helps the bacteria spread.
Methodology
The study used flow cytometry to analyze MHC class I expression in infected and uninfected endocervical epithelial cells.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website