Bacteria Behind Respiratory Infections Found to Deactivate Immune System

University of Queensland researchers reveal how Haemophilus influenzae manipulates immune responses, leading to chronic respiratory illnesses.

Haemophilus influenzae can induce tolerance and reduce immune response in human respiratory tissues.
The bacterium is particularly harmful to individuals with conditions like cystic fibrosis, asthma, and COPD.
Researchers used lab-grown human nasal tissue to study gene expression changes during infection.
Findings suggest potential for new treatments that enhance the immune system's ability to detect and eliminate the bacterium.
The study was published in PLOS Pathogens, offering insights into bacterial persistence and immune modulation.