Host-directed therapies (HDTs) are therapeutic approaches that aim to prevent or treat infections and other diseases by targeting host biological pathways rather than directly acting on the pathogen. These interventions work by modulating the host immune response, enhancing protective mechanisms, or reducing harmful inflammation and tissue damage.
Strategies can include the use of repurposed drugs, immunomodulators, metabolic regulators, or agents that strengthen barrier and repair functions. By focusing on the host, HDTs can complement conventional antimicrobials, reduce the risk of resistance, and provide broad-spectrum protection against diverse pathogens. They are increasingly investigated in the context of antimicrobial resistance, tuberculosis, viral infections, and inflammatory conditions.