mGem: A quarter century with the Pirofski-Casadevall damage response framework-a dynamic construct for understanding microbial pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The damage-response framework (DRF) was introduced 25 years ago by Pirofski and Casadevall.
• It conceptualizes disease as a result of host-pathogen interactions, with damage as the key outcome.

Observation:

• The DRF has become a vital tool for understanding complex infections.
• It is instrumental in analyzing emerging and reemerging microbial threats.
• The framework facilitates the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Findings:

• The DRF provides a robust lens for studying microbial pathogenesis.
• Its application extends to scientific communication and pedagogical purposes.
• The framework's utility is demonstrated in its widespread adoption and continued relevance.

Implications:

• The DRF is crucial for advancing research in infectious diseases.
• It supports innovation in developing new treatments against microbial threats.
• Continued use of the DRF is essential for addressing global health challenges posed by new and reemerging infections.