Activation of the classical complement pathway by Bacillus anthracis is the primary mechanism for spore phagocytosis and involves the spore surface protein BclA.

ABSTRACT: Interactions between spores of Bacillus anthracis and macrophages are critical for the development of anthrax infections, as spores are thought to use macrophages as vehicles to disseminate in the host. In this study, we report a novel mechanism for phagocytosis of B. anthracis spores. Murine macrophage-like cell line RAW264.7, bone marrow-derived macrophages, and primary peritoneal macrophages from mice were used. The results indicated that activation of the classical complement pathway (CCP) was a primary mechanism for spore phagocytosis. Phagocytosis was significantly reduced in the absence of C1q or C3. C3 fragments were found deposited on the spore surface, and the deposition was dependent on C1q and Ca(2+). C1q recruitment to the spore surface was mediated by the spore surface protei

SUBMITTER: Gu C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3331890 | biostudies-literature | 2012 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature