[Molecular basis of Brucella persistence].

This review focuses on Brucella persistence. Data on Brucella--macrophage interaction and the role of molecular-genetic systems including homologues of Mos operon Rhizobium, a type IV secretion system, a flagellum apparatus and a "quorum sensing"--virulence factors using signal or effector molecules are updated. Brucella enters macrophages through lipid raft microdomains, avoids its bactericidal attacks, phagolysosome fusion, expressing a set of virulence genes and inhibits TNF-alpha secretion and apoptosis for persistence in macroorganisms. Comparative whole-genome microarray analyses reveal genomic islands, limited genome diversity in Brucella species and also alterations and deletions of genes responsible for virulence.