Hiding in Plain Site: The Immune System, Tuberculosis, and Antibiotic Resistance (41.6)

Abstract

Abstract This summer I worked in the Cruikshank lab at the Boston University School of Medicine. The Cruikshank research team determined that mannose lipoarabinomannan, (ManLAM), a cell wall component of M. tuberculosis can decrease S1P sensitivity of activated T cells as well as to alter production of selected cytokines. These alterations likely affect the normal immune response by changing T cell homing patterns and decreasing production of response cytokines thereby increasing the mTB’s chances of survival and optimal infection. This research inspired me to create a high school biology unit. This unit is designed to link the study of the immune system with evolution through a closer examination of mTB, particularly, its two main forms: latent TB infection and active TB disease. The unit includes teacher presentations and demonstrations, an internet activity entitled TB in the Media, and laboratory activities. Students are first introduced to the basic functions of the immune system through its defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Then, students work through a simulated ELISA to see its importance in diagnosing disease. Finally, we turn to the emergence of multi-drug resistant mTB as students carry out a laboratory exercise on bacterial transformation. Students present a summary of their learning through the creation of a pamphlet/poster where they investigate a specific disease and describe its symptoms, treatments, suggested causes and immune system interactions.