How do immunometabolites shape bacterial infections?

Abstract

Metabolites generated by host and pathogen have a major impact on the severity and outcomes of infection. The metabolic response to infection shapes the nature and intensity of the immune response, both in bloodstream infections and, especially, in the pathogenesis of pneumonia. Some metabolites are closely linked to pro-inflammatory responses, whereas others act as immunomodulators in mitigating damage to the host, a common consequence of inflammation. Immunometabolites are also major factors in driving bacterial adaptation to the host, enabling pathogens acquired from environmental sources to modify their gene expression to optimize for persistent infection. In this era of diminishing antimicrobial efficacy, an appreciation of the immunometabolic responses to bacterial infection may provide novel targets for therapy.