PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA INTERACTIONS WITH HOST AND BACTERIAL NEIGHBORS IN CYSTIC FIBROSIS LUNG DISEASE

Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung infection is a complex condition where opportunistic pathogens and defective immune system cooperate in developing a constant cycle of infection and inflammation. Despite the polymicrobial nature of this pathology, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered the major pathogen. Several mechanisms contribute to its successful colonization of CF airways; among these, virulence factors are important players. This thesis includes two studies aimed to evaluate aspects of P. aeruginosa interaction with both host and other microorganisms, like the emerging pathogen Achromobacter xylosoxidans.