The Role of Nitric Oxide in Mycobacterial Infections
Immune Network
;
: 46-52, 2009.
Article
in English
| WPRIM
| ID: wpr-49350
ABSTRACT
Although tuberculosis poses a significant health threat to the global population, it is a challenge to develop new and effective therapeutic strategies. Nitric oxide (NO) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) are important in innate immune responses to various intracellular bacterial infections, including mycobacterial infections. It is generally recognized that reactive nitrogen intermediates play an effective role in host defense mechanisms against tuberculosis. In a murine model of tuberculosis, NO plays a crucial role in antimycobacterial activity; however, it is controversial whether NO is critically involved in host defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in humans. Here, we review the roles of NO in host defense against murine and human tuberculosis. We also discuss the specific roles of NO in the central nervous system and lung epithelial cells during mycobacterial infection. A greater understanding of these defense mechanisms in human tuberculosis will aid in the development of new strategies for the treatment of disease.
Full text:
Available
Index:
WPRIM (Western Pacific)
Main subject:
Bacterial Infections
/
Tuberculosis
/
Central Nervous System
/
Nitric Oxide Synthase
/
Defense Mechanisms
/
Epithelial Cells
/
Immunity, Innate
/
Lung
/
Macrophages
/
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Immune Network
Year:
2009
Type:
Article
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