AUTHOR=Nishimoto Andrew T. , Rosch Jason W. , Tuomanen Elaine I. 

TITLE=Pneumolysin: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Target

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology

VOLUME=11

YEAR=2020

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2020.01543

DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2020.01543

ISSN=1664-302X

ABSTRACT=<p><italic>Streptococcus pneumoniae</italic> 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 <italic>S. pneumoniae</italic> 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.</p>