The effect of IL-17A deficiency on infection and inflammation is strain dependent in acute murine pneumonia

Background: Bacterial pneumonia is worldwide a leading cause of mortality. Acute and chronic inflammations leading to destruction of lung tissue, impaired pulmonary gas exchange, and lung edema are characteristic hallmarks of severe pneumonia. IL-17A has a function in the host defense against a variety of bacterial and fungal pathogens. It was the aim of this study to examine the role of IL-17A during acute murine pneumonia. Methods: C57BL/6 mice and C57BL/6 mice deficient for IL-17A were intranasally infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumoniae for 48 hours. Survival rates and bacterial cle…