Epigenetic changes and serotype-specific responses of alveolar type II epithelial cells to Streptococcus pneumoniae in resolving influenza A virus infection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pneumococcal pneumonia following influenza A virus (IAV) infection is a synergistic complication with high mortality in which IAV infection modulates host antibacterial responses and affects bacterial invasiveness of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pn.). IAV-mediated effects can last beyond viral clearance. In acute IAV pneumonia, alveolar type II epithelial cells (AECII) are primary targets for viral replication and contribute to the immune response. Our study addresses sustained effects of IAV infection on AECII and consequences for their response towards different serotypes of S. pn.

Methods

We analyzed bacterial loads, respiratory inflammation and AECII gene transcription profiling in mice infected with IAV and/or one of three S. pn. serotypes of varying invasive

SUBMITTER: Boehme JD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12164077 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature