About this Research Topic
The recent discovery of a complex network of microbial populations within the lung has transformed it into a significant research focus. The lung microbiome ecology is much more dynamic and transient than those displayed by other sites, such as the skin, intestine, or oral cavity. In certain diseases, there is a notable transition in the microbiome composition and distribution (dysbiosis) towards a different profile that impacts pathological developments due to modifications in the rates of microbe immigration, elimination, and reproduction. Thus, deciphering of the relationships between host and resident or colonizing microbes is essential for a proper management, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of respiratory conditions.
The lung microbiome has also been shown to have a significant impact on the efficacy of therapies for several lung diseases, including COVID-19. Furthermore, divergent microbiome profiles have been shown in the lung occurring in many pathological conditions, such as pneumonia, asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, antibiotic resistance, and primary graft dysfunction. Consequently, to better prepare for the next pandemic, it is imperative to get a comprehensive picture of the mechanisms regulating the interplay between the microbiome and the host immune system. Special attention should be paid to the identification of those opportunistic pathogens already associated with the more severe forms of the coronavirus disease. Similarly, the possible role of the lung microbiome in boosting the immunity against infections should be explored. Alternatively, the cross-talks and interactions between the microbiome residing in the lung and other sites, such as the GI tract, should be actively pursued since it was already shown the role of probiotics in modulating the physiological responses to the COVID-19 infection.
Another critical issue is the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, which can complicate medical treatment during pandemics. Consequently, theoretical studies on the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance should be given editorial priority since they can reveal novel pathways and new methods to prevent it. Last but not least, we should focus on papers exploring the feasibility of new, advanced therapies for managing lung physiology through the modulation of the microbiome, although the research is still in its infancy.
This Research Topic welcomes submissions in the form of Original Research and Review articles, Case Reports, Case studies, Technical Notes, Commentaries, and Editorials.
The lung microbiome has also been shown to have a significant impact on the efficacy of therapies for several lung diseases, including COVID-19. Furthermore, divergent microbiome profiles have been shown in the lung occurring in many pathological conditions, such as pneumonia, asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, antibiotic resistance, and primary graft dysfunction. Consequently, to better prepare for the next pandemic, it is imperative to get a comprehensive picture of the mechanisms regulating the interplay between the microbiome and the host immune system. Special attention should be paid to the identification of those opportunistic pathogens already associated with the more severe forms of the coronavirus disease. Similarly, the possible role of the lung microbiome in boosting the immunity against infections should be explored. Alternatively, the cross-talks and interactions between the microbiome residing in the lung and other sites, such as the GI tract, should be actively pursued since it was already shown the role of probiotics in modulating the physiological responses to the COVID-19 infection.
Another critical issue is the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, which can complicate medical treatment during pandemics. Consequently, theoretical studies on the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance should be given editorial priority since they can reveal novel pathways and new methods to prevent it. Last but not least, we should focus on papers exploring the feasibility of new, advanced therapies for managing lung physiology through the modulation of the microbiome, although the research is still in its infancy.
This Research Topic welcomes submissions in the form of Original Research and Review articles, Case Reports, Case studies, Technical Notes, Commentaries, and Editorials.
Keywords: lung microbiome, respiratory conditions, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, lung diseases, COVID-19, antibiotic resistance, advanced therapies
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