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B Cells as a host of Persistent Salmonella Typhimurium
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  • Alonso D. Cruz-Cruz,
  • Jocelyn C. Pérez-Lara,
  • Diana Z. Velázquez,
  • Gabriela Hernández-Galicia,
  • Vianney Ortíz-Navarrete
Alonso D. Cruz-Cruz
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Jocelyn C. Pérez-Lara
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Diana Z. Velázquez
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Gabriela Hernández-Galicia
Cinvestav
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Vianney Ortíz-Navarrete
Cinvestav

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ( S. Tm) can colonize different intracellular niches, either actively dividing or remaining dormant to persist. Bacterial persisters are phenotypic variants that temporarily enter a non-replicative state. This allows them to evade host cell defenses and antibiotics, leading to chronic infections. We previously reported that during chronic periods, Salmonella remains within B cells in the bone marrow and spleen. However, the dynamics of Salmonella replication and the formation of antibiotic tolerance in infected B cells have not been studied. Here we show that B cells are a favorable reservoir for bacterial persistence. In vitro and in vivo experiments identified non-replicating, persistent Salmonella subsets in splenic B cells. These non-replicative Salmonella are tolerant to antibiotics (cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin), while replicative bacteria remain susceptible. Infected mice demonstrated viable, non-replicative Salmonella in spleen B cells, maintaining antibiotic tolerance. Although acid intravacuolar pH and SPI-2 regulators (SsrA/SsrB) are not necessary for Salmonella persistence in B cells, the SehA/B toxin-antitoxin system facilitates the formation of the persistent phenotype in Salmonella. Overall, we show that B cells are a reservoir for non-replicating, antibiotic-tolerant Salmonella.
12 Aug 2024Submitted to Immunology
13 Aug 2024Submission Checks Completed
13 Aug 2024Assigned to Editor
13 Aug 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
23 Aug 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
07 Oct 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Minor