The role of macrophage apoptosis in containing the growth ofthe bacilli is also discussed. The role of other components of innate immune response such asnatural resistance associated macrophage protein (Nramp), neutrophils, and natural killer cellshas been discussed. The specific acquired immune response through CD4 T cells, mainlyresponsible for protective Th1 cytokines and through CD8 cells bringing about cytotoxicity,also has been described. The role of CD-1 restricted CD8+ T cells and non-MHC restricted γγγγγ/δδδδδT cells has been described although it is incompletely understood at the present time. Humoralimmune response is seen though not implicated in protection. The value of cytokine therapyhas.
