Trained immunity in the lung.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Trained immunity, a form of innate immune memory, involves long-term reprogramming of immune cells.
• Initially observed with BCG vaccination and Candida albicans infection, it enhances responses to diverse pathogens.
• This challenges the adaptive immune system's exclusive role in immune memory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the implications of trained immunity specifically within the lung environment.
• To discuss the roles of lung-resident immune cells in mediating trained immunity.
• To explore the potential of trained immunity in enhancing vaccine efficacy and treating lung diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on trained immunity in the context of lung immunology.
• Discussion of epigenetic and metabolic modifications in innate immune cells.
• Analysis of immune cell functions, including alveolar macrophages and dendritic cells.

Main Results:

• Trained immunity involves epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming of innate immune cells.
• Alveolar macrophages and dendritic cells play key roles in lung-based trained immunity.
• This phenomenon can influence pulmonary insults and disease progression.

Conclusions:

• Trained immunity offers a novel perspective on innate immune responses in the lungs.
• It holds potential for improving vaccine efficacy and developing new therapies for lung conditions.
• Further research can lead to innovative interventions for lung health and resilience.