GSK3β and the control of infectious bacterial diseases

Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3 beta) has been shown to be a crucial mediator of the intensity and direction of the innate immune system response to bacterial stimuli. This review focuses on: (i) the central role of GSK3 beta in the regulation of pathogen-induced inflammatory responses through the regulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, Oil the extensive ongoing efforts to exploit GSK3 beta for its therapeutic potential in the control of infectious diseases, and (iii) the increasing evidence that specific pathogens target GSK3 beta-related pathways for immune evasion. A better understanding of compiex bacteria-GSK3 beta interactions is likely to lead to more effective anti-inflammatory interventions and novel targets to circumvent pathogen colonization and survival.