Oral-lung microbiome interactions in lung diseases

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pulmonology
• Oral Health

Background:

• The oral cavity and lower respiratory tract are continuous, making the oropharyngeal microbiome a key factor in lung microbiome composition.
• Host-pathogen interactions involving the oral microbiome can lead to systemic inflammation and altered host defenses, affecting the lungs.
• The lung microbiome's role is increasingly recognized in both infectious (pneumonia, cystic fibrosis) and chronic noninfectious lung diseases (COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intricate relationship between the oral microbiome and various lung diseases.
• To highlight the pathophysiologic significance of the lung microbiome in both infectious and noninfectious respiratory conditions.
• To review the impact of oral microbiota on conditions including pneumonia, COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on oral and lung microbiomes.
• Analysis of host-pathogen interactions and their systemic effects.
• Examination of the role of oral microbiome in the pathogenesis of specific lung diseases.

Main Results:

• The oral microbiome is a significant determinant of the lung microbiome due to anatomical proximity.
• Oral microbiome dysbiosis and its metabolites can influence systemic inflammation and lung immunity.
• Evidence links the oral microbiome to the development and progression of pneumonia, COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• The oral microbiome plays a critical role in lung health and disease.
• Further research into the oral-lung microbiome axis is essential for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting the oral microbiome may offer new avenues for managing respiratory diseases.