Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an idiopathic chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any organ in the body, including the neurological system. Multiple factors, such as environmental (infections), genetic (many HLA alleles including DR2 and DR3, and genes including C4), and immunological influences on self-antigens, such as nuclear antigens, lead to the formation of multiple autoantibodies that cause deleterious damage to bodily tissues and organs. The production of autoantibodies, such as anti-dsDNA, anti-SS(A), anti-SS(B), anti-Smith, and anti-neuronal DNA are characteristic features of this disease. This autoimmune disease results from a failure of the mechanisms responsible for maintaining self-tolerance in T cells, B cells, or both. Immune complexes, circulating antibodies, cytokines, and autoreactive T lymphocytes are responsible for tissue injury in this autoimmune disease. The diagnosis of SLE is a rheumatological challenge despite the availability of clinical criteria. NPSLE was previously referred to as lupus cerebritis or lupus sclerosis. However, these terms are no longer recommended because there is no definitive pathological cause for the neuropsychiatric manifestations of SLE. Currently, the treatment options are primarily based on symptomatic presentations. These include the use of antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anxiolytic medications for the treatment of psychiatric and mood disorders. Antiepileptic drugs to treat seizures, and immunosuppressants (e.g., corticosteroids, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil), are directed against inflammatory responses along with non-pharmacological interventions.

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a primary immunodeficiency caused by a defect in the phagocytic function of the innate immune system owing to mutations in genes encoding the five subunits of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphatase (NADPH) oxidase enzyme complex. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive approach to the pathogens associated with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) and its management. Patients with CGD, often children, have recurrent life-threatening infections and may develop infectious or inflammatory complications. The most common microorganisms observed in the patients with CGD are Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus spp., Candida spp., Nocardia spp., Burkholderia spp., Serratia spp., and Salmonella spp. Antibacterial prophylaxis with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, antifungal prophylaxis usually with itraconazole, and interferon gamma immunotherapy have been successfully used in reducing infection in CGD. Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) have been successfully proven to be the treatment of choice in patients with CGD.

This paper explores various aspects of microbiology and immunology, with a particular focus on the epidemiology and molecular characterisation of infectious diseases in the Caribbean and South America. Key areas of investigation include tuberculosis (TB), experimental vaccines, and bloodborne pathogens. A retrospective study conducted in Jamaica highlights the significance of early HIV screening, timely diagnosis, and inte-grated care. The paper also examines the challenges posed by nosocomial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), emphasising the critical importance of infection control measures. Additionally, it explores the regional microbiome, the global response to infectious diseases, and immune responses in patients with immunodeficiency disorders such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), underscoring their heightened susceptibility to a wide range of infections.

To assess colonization of Streptococcus agalactiae [group B streptococcus (GBS)], and delineate capsular serotype distribution and antibiotic susceptibility profiles among pregnant women in Trinidad and Tobago. Vaginal swabs were collected from 248 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in northern Trinidad, and processed using standard microbiological laboratory tests to confirm GBS. Polymerase chain reaction detected atr and cps serotype genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed using the Kirby–Bauer method, and SPSS Version 25 was used for statistical analysis. Prevalence ratio measured the risk, and P≤0.05 was considered to indicate significance. The GBS carriage rate was 29% (72/248, 95% confidence interval 23.3–34.8), and carriage was significantly associated with variables including gestational diabetes (P=0.042), age 25–35 years (P=0.006), multiparity (P=0.035) and marital status (P=0.006). The most common serotype was type II [47.2% (34/72)], and serotypes V, VI, VII and VIII were not encountered. GBS showed high resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (37.5%), erythromycin (30.6%), trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (58.3%) and tetracycline (97.2%). GBS colonization among pregnant women and resistance to commonly used antibiotics are high in Trinidad and Tobago. A population-based study is required to obtain accurate figures in order to improve maternal healthcare services.

Immunology and microbiology research has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation globally, playing a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of immune mechanisms, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic interventions. This manuscript presents a comprehensive exploration of the key areas in immunology research, spanning from the utilisation of bacterial proteins as antibody reagents to the intricate realms of clinical immunology and disease management. The utilisation of bacterial immunoglobulin-binding proteins (IBPs), including protein A (SpA), protein G (SpG), and protein L (SpL), has revolutionised serological diagnostics, showing promise in early disease detection and precision medicine. Microbiological studies have shed light on antimicrobial resistance patterns, particularly the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), guiding antimicrobial stewardship programmes and informing therapeutic strategies. Clinical immunology research has elucidated the molecular pathways underlying immune-mediated disorders, resulting in tailored management strategies for conditions such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), etc. Additionally, significant efforts in vaccine development against tuberculosis and HIV are highlighted, underscoring the ongoing global pursuit of effective preventive measures against these infectious diseases. In summary, immunology and microbiology research have provided significant contributions to global healthcare, fostering collaboration, innovation, and improved patient outcomes.

This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness and side effects of various COVID-19 vaccines, with a focus on Trinidad and Tobago. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines demonstrated the highest efficacy, particularly against COVID-19 variants, while Janssen and Sinopharm were comparatively less effective. mRNA vaccines, such as Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca, were associated with more frequent and severe side effects, including soreness, fever, and cardiovascular issues. The review also identified significant gaps in the current scientific literature regarding COVID-19 vaccination issues in Trinidad and Tobago. These gaps highlight the need for comprehensive research to address vaccination challenges, including public health communication, equitable access, and local perceptions of vaccine safety. This analysis provides a foundation for developing targeted strategies to improve vaccine effectiveness in the region.