Microbiome Modulation as a Novel Strategy to Treat and Prevent Respiratory Infections

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Acute and chronic lower airway diseases are significant global health burdens.
• Increasing multidrug-resistant pathogens (e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and novel respiratory viruses (e.g., SARS-CoV-2) threaten effective treatment.
• Alterations in the lung and gut microbiome are linked to chronic respiratory disease progression and infection susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of microbiome modulation as a novel strategy for preventing and treating pulmonary infections.
• To review the role of the lung and gut microbiome in chronic respiratory diseases and susceptibility to pathogens.
• To highlight alternative interventions in the face of a potential post-antibiotic era.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, synthesizing current research on the microbiome and lower airway diseases.
• Focuses on studies investigating the link between microbial dysbiosis and respiratory health.
• Examines therapeutic strategies involving microbiome modulation.

Main Results:

• The lung and gut microbiome play a crucial role in respiratory health and disease.
• Microbiome alterations are associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory pathogens and chronic disease progression.
• Modulating the microbiome presents a promising avenue for novel therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• Modulating the lung and gut microbiome is a critical future strategy for combating airway infections.
• Harnessing the microbiome can offer preventive and therapeutic benefits for pulmonary infections and chronic respiratory conditions.
• This approach is vital given the rise of antibiotic resistance and emerging viral threats.