Neutrophils exacerbate tuberculosis infection in genetically susceptible mice

Depletion of neutrophils in mice infected with M. tuberculosis led to reduced lung tissue damage and increased survival time in genetically susceptible I/St mice.

• Neutrophil depletion was achieved using specific antibodies at days 2 and 6 after infection.
• Reduced lung tissue pathology and lower mycobacterial counts were observed in neutrophil-depleted I/St mice.
• Survival time increased significantly in neutrophil-depleted I/St mice compared to controls.
• Neutrophil depletion resulted in a significant increase in mycobacteria-specific T-cells producing IFN-γ.
• Findings suggest that neutrophils may have a harmful effect on immune T-cells during TB infection.

AI simplified