Streptococcus pneumoniae 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 S. pneumoniae 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.

肺炎链球菌是导致广泛疾病的机会病原体，是儿童，老年人和免疫功能低下人群的主要全球健康问题。肺炎球菌溶血素（PLY）是一种胆固醇依赖性溶血素（CDC），是涉及肺炎球菌疾病各个阶段（包括传播，定植和感染）的关键肺炎球菌毒力因子。在这篇综述中，我们介绍了PLY的生物学和细胞溶解功能，及其对肺炎链球菌发病机制及其在组织损伤和免疫反应方面对宿主的已知相互作用和影响。此外，我们审查了他汀类药物作为CDC毒性的治疗选择，以及PLY类毒素作为基于蛋白质的疫苗的候选疫苗。