The Invisible Hijackers: How Respiratory Bacteria Sabotage Our Immune System

University of Queensland researchers have unveiled how Haemophilus influenzae manipulates immune responses to foster chronic respiratory infections.

By deactivating immune defenses, this bacterium avoids detection and exacerbates conditions like asthma and COPD. The findings suggest potential for new treatments that boost the immune system’s ability to counteract this bacterium.

Scientists at The University of Queensland have identified how a common bacterium can manipulate the human immune system during respiratory infections and cause persistent illness. The researchers were led by Professor Ulrike Kappler from UQ’s School of Chemical and Molecular Biosciences.

The study investigated the virulence mechanisms of Haemophilus influenzae, a bacterium that plays a significant role in worsening respiratory tract infections.