M. leprae inhibits apoptosis in THP-1 cells by downregulation of Bad and Bak and upregulation of Mcl-1 gene expression
2006
M. leprae and Apoptosis in THP-1 Cells
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Hasan Zahra, Ashraf Mussarat, Tayyebi Ali, Hussain Rabia
Primary Institution: The Aga Khan University
Hypothesis
How does M. leprae infection affect apoptosis in THP-1 cells compared to M. bovis BCG?
Conclusion
M. leprae inhibits apoptosis in THP-1 cells by downregulating pro-apoptotic genes and upregulating an anti-apoptotic gene.
Supporting Evidence
- M. leprae did not induce significant cell death in THP-1 cells.
- BCG infection resulted in significant cell death and characteristic apoptotic DNA laddering.
- M. leprae reduced Bad and Bak mRNA expression while upregulating Mcl-1.
Takeaway
M. leprae makes cells less likely to die by changing the balance of proteins that control cell death.
Methodology
The study used THP-1 monocytes infected with M. leprae and M. bovis BCG to assess apoptosis and gene expression.
Limitations
The study used gamma-irradiated M. leprae, which may not fully represent live infection effects.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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