Attempts to treat pneumonia typically focus on pneumonia-causing pathogens. However, at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, researchers have been exploring a different approach. They are trying to strengthen the barrier function that is performed by the lungs’ blood vessels. These blood vessels, the researchers point out, are the source of the fluid in pneumonia—the fluid that can lead to pulmonary edema and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
