The art of persistence—the secrets toBurkholderiachronic infections

Abstract

<p class="first" id="d10430542e123">The Gram-negative proteobacteria genus <i>Burkholderia</i> encompasses multiple bacterial species that are pathogenic to humans and other vertebrates. Two pathogenic species of interest within this genus are <i>Burkholderia pseudomallei</i> (Bpm) and the <i>B. cepacia</i> complex (Bcc); the former is the causative agent of melioidosis in humans and other mammals, and the latter is associated with pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. One understudied and shared characteristic of these two pathogenic groups is their ability to persist and establish chronic infection within the host. In this review, we will explore the depth of knowledge about chronic infections caused by persistent Bpm and Bcc. We examine the host risk factors and immune responses associated with more severe chronic infections. We also discuss host adaptation and phenotypes associated with persistent <i>Burkholderia</i> species. Lastly, we survey how other intracellular bacteria associated with chronic infections are combatted and explore possible future applications to target <i>Burkholderia</i>. Our goal is to highlight understudied areas that should be addressed for a more thorough understanding of chronic <i>Burkholderia</i> infections and how to combat them. </p><p class="first" id="d10430542e145">This work explores the depth of knowledge about chronic infections caused by persistent <i>Burkholderia pseudomallei</i> and <i>B. cepacia</i> complex. </p>