Bacillus anthracis Peptidoglycan and Inflammatory Response in Monocytes
Author Information
Author(s): Langer Marybeth, Malykhin Alexander, Maeda Kenichiro, Chakrabarty Kaushik, Williamson Kelly S., Feasley Christa L., West Christopher M., Metcalf Jordan P., Coggeshall K. Mark
Primary Institution: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Hypothesis
The peptidoglycan component of B. anthracis may play a critical role in morbidity and mortality associated with inhalation anthrax.
Conclusion
B. anthracis peptidoglycan stimulates a proinflammatory response in monocytes through the p38 MAP kinase pathway.
Supporting Evidence
- B. anthracis peptidoglycan was shown to stimulate TNFα production in monocytes.
- The inflammatory response was mediated through the p38 MAP kinase pathway.
- Monocytes were identified as the primary source of TNFα in response to B. anthracis peptidoglycan.
Takeaway
The peptidoglycan from the bacteria that cause anthrax makes certain immune cells called monocytes produce a chemical that causes inflammation, which can lead to severe illness.
Methodology
The study involved purifying B. anthracis peptidoglycan and stimulating human peripheral blood cells to measure cytokine production.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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