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Review
. 2020 Jul 2:11:1543.
doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01543. eCollection 2020.

Pneumolysin: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Target

Andrew T Nishimoto  1 , Jason W Rosch  1 , Elaine I Tuomanen  1
Affiliations
Review

Pneumolysin: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Target

Andrew T Nishimoto et al. Front Microbiol. .

Abstract

Streptococcus pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for widespread illness and is a major global health issue for children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised population. Pneumolysin (PLY) is a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC) and key pneumococcal virulence factor involved in all phases of pneumococcal disease, including transmission, colonization, and infection. In this review we cover the biology and cytolytic function of PLY, its contribution to S. pneumoniae pathogenesis, and its known interactions and effects on the host with regard to tissue damage and immune response. Additionally, we review statins as a therapeutic option for CDC toxicity and PLY toxoid as a vaccine candidate in protein-based vaccines.

Keywords: Streptococcus pneumoniae; cholesterol-dependent cytolysin; invasive pneumococcal disease; pneumococcus; pneumolysin; vaccine.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
PLY pore formation at the host cell membrane. (A) PLY monomers gather at cholesterol-rich lipid rafts at the cell membrane and (B) assemble in the ring-shaped pre-pore complex. (C) Insertion of the PLY pore-forming complex into lipid bilayer results in loss of membrane integrity and cell damage/death. (D) Statin medications oppose PLY-induced pore-formation at the cell membrane.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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