Scientists have revealed how a common species of bacteria can build homes inside healthy cells, giving them a safe haven to evade antibiotics and the immune system. The discovery, published in the journal Nature Microbiology, provides new insights into how bacteria cause infections and could lead to new treatments for diseases such as tuberculosis and salmonellosis.

The bacteria, called Salmonella Typhimurium, is a foodborne pathogen that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. In some cases, it can also lead to bloodstream infections and meningitis.

Salmonella Typhimurium has a unique ability to invade and survive inside host cells, where it is protected from the immune system and antibiotics. This ability is critical for the bacterium's virulence, as it allows it to cause disease.

The new study reveals that Salmonella Typhimurium builds its homes inside cells by manipulating the host cell's own machinery. The bacteria use a protein called SopB to poke holes in the cell membrane, creating a pore through which they can enter. Once inside, they use another protein called SifA to form a protective shield around themselves. This shield prevents the immune system from recognizing and attacking the bacteria.

The discovery of how Salmonella Typhimurium builds its homes inside cells could lead to new treatments for infections caused by this bacterium. By targeting the proteins involved in this process, scientists may be able to prevent the bacteria from invading cells and causing disease. This could lead to new drugs that are more effective and less toxic than current treatments.

The findings could also have broader implications for understanding how other bacteria cause infections. Many different types of bacteria use similar mechanisms to invade and survive inside host cells. By understanding how these mechanisms work, scientists may be able to develop new treatments for a wide range of infectious diseases.