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Review
. 2024 Jun 1;37(3):164-169.
doi: 10.1097/QCO.0000000000001010. Epub 2024 Mar 21.

Bacterial cholesterol-dependent cytolysins and their interaction with the human immune response

Tristan C Sanford  1 , Rodney K Tweten, Hunter L Abrahamsen
Affiliations
Review

Bacterial cholesterol-dependent cytolysins and their interaction with the human immune response

Tristan C Sanford et al. Curr Opin Infect Dis. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Many cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC)-producing pathogens pose a significant threat to human health. Herein, we review the pore-dependent and -independent properties CDCs possess to assist pathogens in evading the host immune response.

Recent findings: Within the last 5 years, exciting new research suggests CDCs can act to inhibit important immune functions, disrupt critical cell signaling pathways, and have tissue-specific effects. Additionally, recent studies have identified a key region of CDCs that generates robust immunity, providing resources for the development of CDC-based vaccines.

Summary: This review provides new information on how CDCs alter host immune responses to aid bacteria in pathogenesis. These studies can assist in the design of more efficient vaccines and therapeutics against CDCs that will enhance the immune response to CDC-producing pathogens while mitigating the dampening effects CDCs have on the host immune response.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

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