Lessons learned in BP vs. NTM Research

Asst Prof Ganjana Lertmemongkolchai, Chiang Mai University    Thailand

Burkholderia pseudomallei (BP) and Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental organisms that can be found in contaminated soil, and natural water resources. They are known to cause clinical infections in exposed people who are at risk with underlying conditions, for example diabetes, immunosuppressive treatments and chronic conditions including renal, liver and lung diseases in melioidosis caused by BP. On the other hand, NTM are placing some groups at increased risk including those with underlying lung diseases or depressed immune systems. However, both are rarely transmitted from person-to-person. Importantly, BP and NTM are highly resistant to antimicrobial treatments leading to high mortality rates, up to 40% in some groups or required long term treatments. Host-pathogen interactions in BP and NTM will be discussed in the context of research for vaccine developments.