Enigma still unraveled: intracellular life of Acinetobacter baumannii within host cells

Acinetobacter baumannii is a notorious opportunistic pathogen known for its ability to cause severe infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii infections is surging at a concerning rates. While traditionally considered an extracellular pathogen, emerging findings suggest that A. baumannii can survive and replicate within host cells, thereby evading immune responses and antimicrobial treatments. This article reviews recent cases of intracellular persistence and explores survival strategies employed by A. baumannii, including its interactions with host cell machinery and evasion of host defenses. Understanding of these mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted therapeutics to combat A. baumannii infections.