In addition, the data on IRF3 modulation after the infection with wt Mtb and MtbΔRD1::RD1 are reminiscent of our previous findings showing that the transcription of IL12A (also known as IL12p35) subunit and of IFN-β1 via IRF3 activation takes place only in Mtb-infected DC, while is poorly induced in BCG-stimulated cells, which are consequently less efficient in promoting a Th1-oriented response33, 35. Here, IL12A is linked to infection.