To this end, we assessed the interaction of the mutant with macrophages, which underlies in vitro recognition by phagocytes and is required for subsequent responses; examined the intracellular growth of bacteria, the production of nitric oxide (NO), ROS, and the cytokines TNF-α and IL-10 by macrophages; and determined the role of TLR2- and CR3-mediated signaling pathways in the response of macrophages to infection with wild-type and mutant strains. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is infection.