The Lung Microbiome and Its Role in Pneumonia
Benjamin G Wu1, Leopoldo N Segal1
1Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, NYU Human Microbiome Program, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10028, USA.
Clinics in Chest Medicine
|November 5, 2018
Summary
Next-generation sequencing and multiomic analysis reveal complex lower airway microbial communities. These respiratory tract microbes influence host immunity and susceptibility to pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Genomics
Background:
- The lower airways were once considered sterile, but advanced techniques reveal a complex microbial community.
- Understanding these microbial communities is crucial for respiratory health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of lower airway microbes in the development of pneumonia.
- To highlight the impact of microbe-host and microbe-microbe interactions on disease susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) for microbial identification.
- Multiomic analysis to understand microbial community structure and function.
- Literature review of studies on respiratory tract microbiota and pneumonia.
Main Results:
- Microbial communities in the lower airways blur the distinction between commensals and pathogens.
- Microbe-host and microbe-microbe interactions significantly affect pathogen susceptibility.
- The lower airway microbiota plays a critical role in modulating host immune tone.
Conclusions:
- The respiratory tract harbors complex microbial communities that are integral to host defense and disease.
- Further research into lower airway microbiota is essential for understanding and treating pneumonia.
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