Related Experiment Videos
Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae: pathogenesis and prevention
A R Foxwell1, J M Kyd, A W Cripps
1School of Human and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Canberra, Belconnen, Australia.
Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews : MMBR
|June 10, 1998
Summary
Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) successfully colonizes humans, causing severe respiratory infections when balance is disrupted. NTHi adapts through genetic diversity and immune evasion, highlighting potential for new mucosal vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is a significant cause of acute and chronic respiratory tract infections.
- NTHi exhibits genetic and phenotypic diversity, adapting to host environments and evading immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the complex interaction between NTHi and the human host.
- To explore NTHi's strategies for colonization, pathogenesis, and immune evasion.
- To identify potential targets for therapeutic and preventative strategies.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies using cell and organ cultures.
- In vivo animal models (chinchillas, rats, mice) for otitis media and pulmonary infections.
- Analysis of NTHi genetic and phenotypic diversity, including lipooligosaccharide (LOS) and outer membrane proteins.
Main Results:
- NTHi demonstrates remarkable adaptability, colonizing and persisting in the host through diverse mechanisms.
- Host-pathogen interactions involve NTHi utilizing surface structures and secreted factors to facilitate colonization and invasion.
- Immune evasion strategies, including antigenic variation and epithelial cell invasion, contribute to NTHi's prolonged survival.
Conclusions:
- NTHi's success as a pathogen relies on its adaptability, diverse attachment mechanisms, and ability to evade host immunity.
- Understanding these host-organism interactions is crucial for developing effective interventions.
- A mucosal vaccine strategy is proposed as a promising approach to prevent NTHi infections.