In vitro tests for screening of immuno-modulating mycobacterial strains in leprosy.

There is an urgent need for the development of an in vitro assay for the initial screening of a large number of organisms from which potential candidates as vaccines can be identified. Our previous studies have demonstrated a crucial defect in the lepromatous macrophage. In this study by monitoring this defective macrophage response we have screened various mycobacteria for their ability to reverse the alterations induced by Mycobacterium leprae. Among the limited Mycobacteria tested Mycobacterium vaccae appears to be the most promising as an immunomodulator. Our results also indicate the need for caution in using the mouse model for this purpose.