Inhibition of abl tyrosine kinase supports antimicrobial activity in human alveolar macrophages

Objective: Inhibition of abl tyrosine kinase by Gleevec® has revolutionized the therapy of chronic myeloic leukemia. The therapeutic manipulation of this ubiquitously expressed enzyme requires careful evaluation of potential side effects. This study was designed to investigate the functional implication of Gleevec® on the interaction of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.Tb) and its natural host cell, the alveolar macrophage. Methods: Human alveolar macrophages were purified from bronchoalveolar lavage cells and infected with virulent M. Tb. Intracellular growth, phagosomal acidification and the expression of antimic…