The Hole Problem: Understanding How a Pore-Forming Toxin Promotes Respiratory Disease

The bacterial pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae causes over 150,000 hospitalizations annually in the U.S., with a mortality rate of 5-7%, making the disease both a significant health and financial burden. During infection, S. pneumoniae enters the human airways, damages lung cells, and causes severe diseases including pneumonia, heart complications, and brain inflammation, all of which can lead to death. The Adams Lab studies how to prevent S. pneumoniae from causing severe disease in humans. Recent work with students in the lab has identified factors that drive this disease and revealed exciting opportunities to pursue therapies for many respiratory infections.