Insights into the host response to ‘dormant’ Mycobacterium tuberculosis utilizing ‘Vitamin C-induced dormant Mtb’ THP-1 cell infection model

Host transcriptome analysis of Mtb-infected cells has revealed that key pathways involved in immune surveillance, DNA repair, and apoptosis are altered, leading to an environment that favors infection. Despite these perturbations, the induction of antigen processing and presentation pathways in the 'Vit C-induced Dormant Mtb' model suggests an attempt by the host to counteract infection. These findings provide valuable insights into how the host cellular environment undergoes extensive modifications during Mtb infection and thereby creates conditions that support bacterial persistence.