Modulation of the Host Response as a Therapeutic Strategy in Severe Lung Infections

Respiratory pathogens such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2 can cause severe lung infections leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The pathophysiology of ARDS includes an excessive host immune response, epithelial endothelial cell death loss the barrier integrity, culminating in pulmonary oedema failure. Traditional approaches for treatment include drugs that exert direct anti-pathogen effects (e.g., antivirals). However, agents are typically ineffective or insufficient after development ARDS. Modulation response has emerged a promising alternative therapeutic approach mitigate damage infections; principle, this strategy should also be less susceptible pathogen resistance. In review, we discuss different host-targeting strategies against pathogen-induced Developing therapeutics enhance is pathogen-agnostic will help prepare next pandemic.