Given the success of the Research Topic ‘Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria Infections and COVID-19’ Volume I and the rapidly evolving subject area, we are pleased to announce the launch of Volume II. For this volume the Research Topic will be focusing on the advances and challenges in non-tuberculous mycobacteria infections.

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections represent a growing concern in infectious diseases, increasingly recognized for their significant contribution to pulmonary disorders, disseminated disease in immunocompromised individuals, and difficult-to-treat skin and soft-tissue infections. The expanding global prevalence is influenced by enhanced diagnostic capabilities, demographic shifts, and heightened exposure due to environmental changes. Despite the identification of important species, such as Mycobacterium avium complex and M. abscessus, there remain critical challenges in diagnosis, management, and understanding of host-pathogen-environment interactions. Recent studies have underscored the formidable biofilm formation capacity, notable genomic diversity, and multidrug resistance that complicate effective treatment. While molecular advancements and the application of systems biology have begun to unravel important aspects of NTM pathogenicity and diversity, fundamental questions remain about infection persistence, treatment response variability, and optimal clinical management.

This Research Topic aims to connect foundational and clinical research to tackle urgent priorities in the field of non-tuberculous mycobacteria infections. The central objectives are to improve diagnostic accuracy at the species and subspecies level, illuminate mechanisms underpinning persistence and drug resistance, and promote the development of novel therapeutic interventions. We encourage studies that identify reliable biomarkers for rapid detection, clarify host immune mechanisms and environmental reservoirs, and assess innovative antimicrobials or adjunctive therapies. Furthermore, we seek contributions that integrate genomic, microbiological, and clinical perspectives to refine patient risk stratification, enhance therapeutic decision-making, and inform guidelines. Ultimately, this Research Topic strives to generate a deeper, actionable understanding that will directly impact diagnosis, therapy optimization, and outcome prediction for patients affected by NTM infections.

We encourage contributions exploring, but not limited to, the following themes:
o Rapid diagnostics: metagenomics, targeted sequencing, antigen assays, and AI-assisted workflows
o Microbial physiology: biofilm formation, dormancy, stress responses, and resistance mechanisms
o Host-pathogen interactions and the role of innate/adaptive immunity and the microbiome
o Environmental reservoirs, transmission dynamics, and One Health perspectives
o Novel therapeutics, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and combination strategies
o Clinical phenotyping, prognostication, and outcome predictors
o Implementation science and antimicrobial stewardship in NTM management

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Advances and challenges in non-tuberculous mycobacteria infections