Alterations in oral microbiota in HIV-infected individuals related to pulmonary function

HIV infection is an independent risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood. The immune system is significantly altered in persons living with HIV (PLWH), potentially disrupting resident bacterial communities. Recent studies suggest that the oral microbiome shapes the lung microbiome and dysbiosis in the gut microbiome can impact lung diseases. However, the relationship of the oral and gut microbiome to COPD in HIV has not been explored. We collected oral and gut samples from individuals with and without HIV infection and determined relationships of bacterial communities to lung function.