The airway microbiome and disease.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pulmonology
• Host-microbe interactions

Background:

• The human airways were traditionally considered sterile.
• Emerging evidence indicates a complex airway microbiome exists.
• Distinct bacterial communities are found in healthy versus diseased lungs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in airway microbiome discovery and characterization.
• To discuss evidence for the functional role of the airway microbiome in health and disease.
• To explore the clinical implications of airway microbiome research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on airway microbiome composition.
• Analysis of experimental evidence for microbiome function.
• Discussion of host-microbe interactions in the respiratory tract.

Main Results:

• The airway microbiome is a dynamic community of bacteria.
• Bacterial phyla composition differs significantly between healthy and diseased lungs.
• Limited but growing evidence suggests functional roles for the airway microbiome.

Conclusions:

• The airway microbiome plays a role in respiratory health and disease.
• Further research is needed to elucidate functional mechanisms.
• Understanding the airway microbiome will impact future clinical practice.