Cholesterol Catabolism Pathway in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Cholesterol Catabolism Pathway (Mtb))

Cholesterol Catabolism Pathway in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Overview

The cholesterol catabolism pathway in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a crucial metabolic process that enables the bacterium to utilize host-derived cholesterol as a carbon and energy source during infection. This pathway is essential for Mtb’s survival, persistence, and virulence within the host, particularly inside macrophages. The pathway involves cholesterol uptake, side chain degradation, ring cleavage, and integration of catabolic products into central metabolic pathways. Key proteins involved include mce4 (cholesterol transporter), CYP125/CYP142/CYP124 (cytochrome P450s for side-chain oxidation), and KstR/KstR2 (transcriptional regulators). Targeting this pathway represents a potential therapeutic strategy for tuberculosis.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of cholesterol uptake, side chain oxidation, or ring cleavage, leading to disruption of bacterial energy production and survival.

Biological Functions

Safety Considerations

Interacting Drugs