Crucial Role For Protein Kinase C Alpha And Arginase Activation In The Induction Of Pulmonary Endothelial Hyperpermeability By Pneumolysin

Rationale: Infections with Streptococcus pneumoniae are accompanied by a pulmonary endothelial hyperpermeability. Death in pneumonia patients can occur when tissues are sterile and correlates with the presence of bacterial virulence factors, the most important one of which is the pore-forming toxin pneumolysin (PLY). Unfortunately, to date mechanisms of PLY-induced pulmonary endothelial hyperpermeability, as well as potential therapeutic options to tackle its activity, remain elusive. To investigate the mechanism of PLY-induced endothelial dysfunction and to identify novel therapeutic targets and treatment options.