Interaction of the leprosy bacillus and human host: relevant components and mechanism of disease

The study of the relationship between Mycobacterium leprae and its human host, by investigating the bacterial components and the host immune response, will certainly provide the basis for a better treatment and control of leprosy. In addition, leprosy represents an attractive model from where important aspects regarding pathogen survival strategies, and the basic mechanisms involved in the regulation of the immune system can be learned. This review describes the definition of a major protein of the leprosy bacillus with a potential role in its virulence. The involvement of key cytokines and leukocyte subsets in protection and pathophysiology of this disease is also presented.