Figure
8. Schematic representation of immuno-modulatory role played by Rv2615c
Rv2615c can interact and activate the host immune receptor TLR4 leading
to activation of downstream effectors such as MyD88, NF-ƙB and TNF-α
along with up-regulation of antigen presenting molecules HLA-DR. By
possessing a eukaryotic CARD-like domain, Rv2615c could activate the
initiator Caspase9 activity and formation of apoptosome complex which
further activates executioner Caspase 3 and 7 and induces apoptosis.
These observations implicate that Rv2615c could be a late stage
expressing protein of Mtb facilitating cell-to spread of infection,
activation and recruitment of immune cells at granuloma site and
ultimately pathogen persistence.