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Immunomodulatory agents for prophylaxis and therapy of infections
1Robert Koch Institute, Nordufer 20, D-13353, Berlin, Germany. masihik@rki.de
Abstract:
The advent of the antibiotic era ushered in a shift towards non-pathogen-specific therapy of infectious diseases. This led to an overt emphasis on targeting microbial pathogens while strategies directed towards enhancing host immunity were neglected. In an effort to decrease sole reliance on antimicrobials, the time has come for a critical reappraisal of nonantibiotic, albeit immune response-enhancing substances. The diverse array of natural, synthetic, and recombinant immunomodulators discussed in this review succinctly demonstrate the potential of these agents to stimulate host defense mechanisms for prophylaxis and treatment of various microbial infections.
Insights
The antibiotic era overemphasized pathogen targeting, neglecting host immunity. This review highlights nonantibiotic immunomodulators as promising strategies to boost host defenses against infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The antibiotic era led to an overreliance on pathogen-specific treatments for infectious diseases.
- Strategies focused on enhancing host immunity have been historically neglected.
- There is a growing need to reduce sole reliance on antimicrobials due to resistance and side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically reappraise nonantibiotic substances that enhance host immune responses.
- To explore the potential of immunomodulators for prophylaxis and treatment of microbial infections.
- To highlight alternative therapeutic strategies beyond traditional antimicrobials.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on immunomodulatory agents.
- Analysis of natural, synthetic, and recombinant immunomodulators.
- Evaluation of their capacity to stimulate host defense mechanisms.
Main Results:
- A diverse array of immunomodulators demonstrates potential in stimulating host defense.
- These agents can be utilized for both preventing (prophylaxis) and treating microbial infections.
- Nonantibiotic approaches offer a viable alternative to conventional antimicrobial therapy.
Conclusions:
- Nonantibiotic immunomodulators represent a significant therapeutic avenue.
- Enhancing host immunity is a crucial strategy for combating infectious diseases.
- Further research into these agents can decrease reliance on antimicrobials and combat resistance.