Analysis of the efficacy of Langhans giant cells in controlling cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum infections

Background: Cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum (M. marinum) infection can lead to the formation of infectious granulomas containing Langhans giant cells (LGCs). Due to concerns about prolonged antibiotic use and the development of drug resistance, its treatment poses challenges. As active participants in granulomas, the therapeutic effect of LGCs has not been studied in animal models.

Objectives: We aim to investigate the antibacterial efficacy and immune response after transplanting LGCs into a mouse model of cutaneous M. marinum infection.

Results: LGCs effectively reduced the bacterial load and limited the growth of granulomas in the mouse footpads. Also, LGC treatment increased the production of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-10 and antimicrobial peptides S100A8/A9.

Conclusions: Overall, our results show that LGCs reduced the bacterial load in the mouse footpads and limited the growth of granulomas while simultaneously accelerating the immune response and maintaining immune homeostasis. These findings further confirm the beneficial role of LGCs in controlling mycobacterial infections in mice and provide promising new alternatives for future treatments.