ESAT-6 modulates Calcimycin-induced autophagy through microRNA-30a in mycobacteria infected macrophages.

•Calcimycin-induced autophagy was inhibited by PPD 3 compared to PPD 10.•Autophagy inhibition by PPD 3 increased intracellular survival of mycobacteria.•rESAT-6 in PPD 3 fraction inhibits autophagy and enhances mycobacterial growth.•rESAT-6 regulated Calcimycin-induced autophagy by modulating miR-30a expression.•Inhibition of anti-autophagic response by miR-30a-3p kills intracellular bacteria.