Pathogenic bacteria colonization in upper airways

Colonization of the upper airways by pathogenic bacteria is a prerequisite for many respiratory infections, including pneumonia and otitis media. This process involves attachment of bacteria to the mucosal epithelium, evasion of local immune responses, acquisition of nutrients in a competitive environment, and sometimes biofilm formation. Key bacterial species involved include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Colonization can be promoted or inhibited by changes in the host microbiota, respiratory viral infections, and immune status. While some interventions can reduce colonization or the risk of progression to disease, "pathogenic bacteria colonization in upper airways" is a broad biological process, not a specific molecular target or receptor.

Other names

Upper airway bacterial colonizationNasopharyngeal colonization by pathogenic bacteriaUpper respiratory tract pathobiont carriage

Inhibition of bacterial growth; Disruption of bacterial adhesion or biofilm formation; Immunomodulation to enhance host defense