Microbiome and disease in the upper airway

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• The human microbiome refers to the collective genetic potential of microorganisms residing in a specific niche.
• While associations between the microbiome and chronic diseases are noted, their precise roles, particularly in the upper airway, are not fully understood.
• Disruptions in microbial communities (dysbiosis) can lead to pathogen overgrowth and increased infection susceptibility, as seen in other body systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on the upper airway microbiome across different subsites (nasal cavity, sinuses, nasopharynx, larynx).
• To investigate the relationship between the upper airway microbiome and chronic inflammatory disease processes.
• To synthesize recent findings linking microbial dysbiosis to upper airway inflammation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing scientific literature.
• Analysis of studies comparing microbiomes in healthy individuals versus those with site-specific upper airway inflammatory conditions.
• Focus on research exploring the microbiome of the nasal cavity, sinus cavities, nasopharynx, and larynx.

Main Results:

• The upper airway harbors a complex consortium of microbial communities.
• Fluctuations in the baseline upper airway microbiome composition appear to contribute to disease pathogenesis.
• Evidence suggests a link between microbial dysbiosis and chronic inflammatory diseases of the upper airway.

Conclusions:

• The role of the upper airway microbiome in health and disease requires further investigation.
• Understanding the dynamics of shifting microbial communities is essential for advancing therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting the microbiome may offer novel approaches for managing upper airway inflammatory conditions.