Metabolic Regulation of Immune Responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A Spotlight on L-Arginine and L-Tryptophan Metabolism

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), is a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite decades of research, there is still much to be uncovered regarding the immune response to Mtb infection. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on anti-Mtb immunity, with a spotlight on immune cell amino acid metabolism. Specifically, we discuss L-arginine and L-tryptophan, focusing on their requirements, regulatory roles, and potential use as adjunctive therapy in TB patients. By continuing to uncover the immune cell contribution during Mtb infection and how amino acid utilization regulates their functions, it is anticipated that novel host-directed therapies may be developed and/or refined, helping to eradicate TB.

Automated summary

This article provides a summary of the current knowledge on anti-Mtb immunity, focusing on immune cell amino acid metabolism, specifically discussing the roles of L-arginine and L-tryptophan in TB patients. By uncovering the immune cell contribution during Mtb infection and how amino acid utilization regulates their functions, novel host-directed therapies may be developed and refined to help eradicate TB.