What is the main function of macrophages in the TB infection process?

The primary function of macrophages in the context of a tuberculosis (TB) infection is to surround and contain the bacteria. When Mycobacterium tuberculosis enters the body, macrophages play a crucial role in the immune response by engulfing the bacteria through a process called phagocytosis.

Once inside the macrophages, the bacteria are often not immediately destroyed but are instead contained within an environment known as a granuloma. This formation is essential as it helps to prevent the spread of the bacteria to other parts of the body. The granuloma effectively walls off the infection, allowing the immune system to manage it and prevent further dissemination. This containment strategy is a hallmark of TB infection and reflects the complex interaction between the pathogen and the host's immune response.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the macrophages' role in TB. The goal is not to cure the infection outright, as the bacteria may persist in a dormant state within macrophages. Macrophages do not spread the infection; rather, their containment strategy aims to limit the spread. Also, while macrophages are involved in the immune response, they do not produce antibodies; that function is primarily carried out by B cells in the adaptive immune system.