Exploitation of Host Signal Transduction Pathways Induced by Streptococcus pneumoniae

Simone Bergmann, Vaibhav Agarwal, Sven Hammerschmidt

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterResearchpeer-review

Abstract

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.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStreptococcus Pneumoniae
Subtitle of host publicationMolecular Mechanisms of Host-Pathogen Interactions
PublisherElsevier
Pages347-362
Number of pages16
ISBN (Electronic)9780124114531
ISBN (Print)9780124105300
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015 May 11

Subject classification (UKÄ)

  • Medicinal Chemistry

Free keywords

  • Adhesion
  • Extracellular matrix
  • Integrin
  • Pneumolysin
  • Signal transduction
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Surface protein

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