Interaction between Francisella Species and the Host Immune System

Dear Colleagues,

More than a century of research on Francisella tularensis, the etiological agent of tularemia, has provided significant information on the bacterium itself and its relationship with its host. However, recently the genus Francisella contains at least ten species and the taxonomy of the whole genus is somewhat uncertain. Moreover, we still have substantial gaps in our understanding of the bacterium’s defense systems which enable its pathogenicity and virulence and of its complex interactions with the components of the host’s immune system. Recent advances in infection biology utilizing high-throughput technologies and sophisticated cell biology models and tools have brought new insights into the Francisella–host immune system relationship. Francisella species with their general and specific molecular and functional characteristics seems to be a promising model for host–pathogen interaction studies. 

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide new knowledge and enable a better understanding of the cellular and molecular events that lead 1) to Francisella sp. induced infection and 2) to the induction of protective immunity. Deciphering the extracellular and intracellular mutual interactions between Francisella and the host’s molecular and cellular entities leading to immune recognition, activation of innate immunity, induction of adaptive immune response, and elimination of bacteria from the cells and tissues is absolutely necessary for the construction of an effective vaccine, which is still lacking.

Prof. Dr. Ales Macela
Dr. Klara Kubelkova
Guest Editors

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