Lisa Påhlman

Our research

My research group studies the airway microbiome and respiratory tract infections in lung transplant recipients and patients with the genetic disorder cystic fibrosis (CF). Both groups of patients have an altered airway microbiome due to the underlying disease and frequent antibiotic treatments. Acute and chronic airway infections are common, and the patients often become colonized with pathogens that rarely cause disease in lung healthy individuals. For many of the different microbes that are found in airway cultures from these patients, the clinical relevance in the long and short perspective is unknown.

Aims

• Can we identify specific microbes in the airway microbiome that cause or protect against airway infections?
• What is the clinical significance of different microbes found in airway cultures from these patients?
• What bacterial virulence factors are important for the establishment of acute and chronic airway infections?

Strengths of the group

Translational research. 

The funding from WCMM allows me to continue and develop my line of research. Importantly, it also provides a unique platform for new and translational research collaborations.

Impact

Airway infections are important complications in people with CF and lung transplant recipients, and can lead to organ damage and lung function decline. This research can increase our knowledge about the pathogenesis of airway infections and identify new treatment approaches.

| Research Output

Affiliations

• Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine
• Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Section for Infection Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Lund