The upper respiratory tract microbiome and its role in human health: biotopes and variability

Abstract

Human respiratory tract is a complex system with a specific microbiological profile. Until recently, researchers were mostly interested in lung microbial communities associated with acute and chronic infections. The upper respiratory tract microbiota has gained attention during COVID-19 pandemic as it was proposed to be one of the factors affecting the course and the outcome of viral infections. The aim. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge about microbial communities in each section of the upper respiratory tract, considering the proposed barrier function of the respiratory microbiome. Conclusion. The facts provided in the first part of this review give a modern perspective on the structure of microbial communities of each part of the upper respiratory tract and factors that affect their variability.