Mycobacteria are intracellular pathogens capable of invading mononuclear ph
agocyte, mucosal epithelial cells (including M cells) and Schwann cells. To
enter cells, mycobacteria have been shown to interact with several molecul
es on macrophage and epithelial cell surfaces. This suggests adaptation to
the host environment. In this review we address the strategies used by path
ogenic mycobacteria to gain access to the intracellular environment. (C) 20
01 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.