New Insights into How Leprosy Infection Spreads Could Pave the Way for Early Intervention (IMAGE)

Cell Press

New Insights into How Leprosy Infection Spreads Could Pave the Way for Early Intervention

Caption

Stem cell-like cells contribute to bacterial spread into skeletal muscles and macrophages. (Left) Bacteria-laden stem cells (green) directly fused with skeletal muscles (red) and disseminated leprosy bacteria (stained by mycobacterial acid-fast staining; in red) inside the muscle fibers (top right). Stem cell-like cells (green) secrete chemoactractants, recruit macrophages (red) and transfer bacteria (bottom right). Shown is a macrophage (red) that has received bacteria (green) from stem cells.

Credit

<I>Cell</I>, Masaki et al.

Usage Restrictions

Credit Required

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.