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Immunometabolic Circuits in Infection for Advancing Host Directed Therapies
Published on: September 13, 2024
Immunostimulation in the era of the metagenome
Amy D Proal1, Paul J Albert, Greg P Blaney
1Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia. amy.proal@gmail.com
Abstract:
Microbes are increasingly being implicated in autoimmune disease. This calls for a re-evaluation of how these chronic inflammatory illnesses are routinely treated. The standard of care for autoimmune disease remains the use of medications that slow the immune response, while treatments aimed at eradicating microbes seek the exact opposite-stimulation of the innate immune response. Immunostimulation is complicated by a cascade of sequelae, including exacerbated inflammation, which occurs in response to microbial death. Over the past 8 years, we have collaborated with American and international clinical professionals to research a model-based treatment for inflammatory disease. This intervention, designed to stimulate the innate immune response, has required a reevaluation of disease progression and amelioration. Paramount is the inherent conflict between palliation and microbicidal efficacy. Increased microbicidal activity was experienced as immunopathology-a temporary worsening of symptoms. Further studies are needed, but they will require careful planning to manage this immunopathology.
Insights
Microbes are linked to autoimmune diseases, prompting a re-evaluation of treatments. Stimulating the innate immune response to fight microbes may worsen inflammation, requiring careful management of this immunopathology.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Autoimmune diseases are increasingly linked to microbial involvement.
- Current treatments for autoimmune diseases focus on immune suppression.
- Microbe-eradicating treatments aim to stimulate the innate immune response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the treatment of autoimmune diseases in light of microbial implications.
- To investigate a model-based treatment designed to stimulate the innate immune response.
- To address the conflict between therapeutic goals and potential immunopathology.
Main Methods:
- Collaboration with clinical professionals over 8 years.
- Research into a model-based intervention for inflammatory diseases.
- Analysis of disease progression and symptom amelioration.
Main Results:
- Stimulating the innate immune response presents challenges.
- Microbial eradication can lead to exacerbated inflammation (immunopathology).
- Increased microbicidal activity was associated with a temporary worsening of symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Standard autoimmune disease treatments may need re-evaluation.
- Treatments stimulating innate immunity require careful planning.
- Managing immunopathology is crucial for effective microbicidal therapies.
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