NACFC 2021 | S26: Host-Pathogen Interactions in Cystic Fibrosis

The role of microbial pathogens in the progression of cystic fibrosis airway disease has been recognized for many years. An emerging concept is that defective host response to a set of pathogens, and not microbial virulence determinants alone, results in failure to eliminate pathogens and inflammatory damage in the lungs. The degree of microbial virulence depends on host factors. While some microbes are able to exist within the CF airways without causing disease, others display enhanced pathogenicity in response to host triggers, and host interactions can drive adaptation of pathogens to the CF airway environment.

This symposium reviews current knowledge of host interactions with a broad range of microbes associated with CF respiratory disease, including Gram negative bacteria, Gram positive bacteria, anaerobes and respiratory viruses. By furthering our understanding of host-pathogen interactions in the CF lung, we may develop targeted strategies to decrease pathogen virulence and prevent airway destruction.

Originally recorded November 5, 2021.