Reducing mortality caused by pediatric infections is perhaps the best investment in the history of humankind (https://www.vox.com/today-explained-newsletter/352605/global-health-investment-study-roi). However, the burden of infectious disease on children is still immense. We are now learning that early life interactions with microorganisms, be they infectious pathogens or the natural microbial flora, make critical contributions to many chronic inflammatory diseases. It is also evident that many inflammatory diseases are by immune cells that persist long after the infection has resolved.
At UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh the i4Kids Institute will investigate early life interactions between microorganisms and the host immune system and how these interactions contribute to both pediatric and lifelong chronic disease.
