Exploitation of Host Signal Transduction Pathways Induced by Streptococcus pneumoniae

• The induction of host signal transduction cascades by bacterial pathogens contributes directly to their virulence. In addition to the pore-forming cytolysin pneumolysin, several surface-exposed proteins of Streptococcus pneumoniae are also potent modulators of complex host signaling pathways. These pneumococcal surface proteins either directly mediate adhesion of pneumococci to specific cell surface receptors or recruit extracellular matrix or serum components as molecular bridges for binding to cellular receptors. In turn, adhesion triggers and subverts host signal transduction cascades to promote pneumococcal translocation across tissue barriers and dissemination within host tissues. This chapter summarizes the current knowledge of how pneumolysin and major adhesins manipulate host signaling pathways. The chapter will provide a structured overview of the signaling profiles induced by pneumococci, focusing on the receptors required and comparing the key signaling molecules and intracellular responses involved.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper -- Läkemedelskemi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine -- Medicinal Chemistry (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Adhesion

Extracellular matrix

Integrin

Pneumolysin

Signal transduction

Streptococcus pneumoniae

Surface protein

Publication and Content Type

kap (subject category)

ref (subject category)