Analysis of Macrophage Signaling Following M. tuberculosis Infection

The interactions of Mycobacterium tuberculosis with human macrophages are central to all aspects of the pathogenesis of tuberculosis, from initial infection to reactivation disease. Characterization of the biochemical mechanisms by which macrophages respond to M. tuberculosis has provided exciting insights into pathophysiology and will foster unique approaches for therapy and prevention. This chapter will outline the macrophage signal transduction pathways that regulate two critical phases of the host-pathogen interaction in tuberculosis; phagocytosis and phagosome maturation. In addition to reviewing our current understandings and gaps in knowledge, emphasis will be placed on the experimental approaches that are currently employed, as well as those emerging technologies that are beginning to inform our studies of mycobacterial pathogenesis.