Abstract:
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that can remain dormant for many years before becoming active. One way to control and eliminate TB is the identification and treatment of latent TB, preventing infected individuals from developing active TB and thus eliminating the subsequent spread of the disease. Isocitrate lyase (ICL) is involved in the mycobacterial glyoxylate and methylisocitrate cycles. ICL is important for the growth and survival of M. tuberculosis. ICL is not present in humans and is therefore a potential therapeutic target for the development of anti-TB agents. Here, we explore the evidence linking ICL to the growth and survival of M. tuberculosis. The structure, mechanism and inhibition of the enzyme is also discussed.