STING and IRF3 mediate cytosolic innate immune recognition of Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia and sepsis world-wide. The innate immune system detects S. pneumoniae through pattern-recognition receptors including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and NOD-like receptors (NLRs). In this project, we examine an additional innate immune recognition pathway sensing pneumococcal infection. We found that both murine and human alveolar macrophages produced type I Interferons (IFNs) upon infection with S. pneumoniae. This response was dependent on the pore-forming toxin pneumolysin but independent of the capsule. Moreover, it was mediated through…