Corrigendum: Plasma Protein Layer Concealment Protects From Innate Immune Attack.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.

Plasma Protein Layer Concealment Protects From Innate Immune Attack.

Early recognition and elimination of invading pathogens by the innate immune system, is one of the most efficient host defense mechanisms preventing the induction of systemic complications from infection. To this end the host can mobilize endogenous antimicrobials capable of killing the intruder by perforating the microbial cell wall. Here, we show that can shield its outer surface with a layer of plasma proteins.

Pneumococcus Infection of Primary Human Endothelial Cells in Constant Flow.

Interaction of Streptococcus pneumoniae with the surface of endothelial cells is mediated in blood flow via mechanosensitive proteins such as the Von Willebrand Factor (VWF). This glycoprotein changes its molecular conformation in response to shear stress, thereby exposing binding sites for a broad spectrum of host-ligand interactions. In general, culturing of primary endothelial cells under a defined shear flow is known to promote the specific cellular differentiation and the formation of a stable and tightly linked endothelial layer resembling the physiology of the inner lining of a blood vessel.

Von Willebrand Factor Mediates Pneumococcal Aggregation and Adhesion in Blood Flow.

is a major cause of community acquired pneumonia and septicaemia in humans. These diseases are frequently associated with thromboembolic cardiovascular complications. Pneumococci induce the exocytosis of endothelial Weibel-Palade Bodies and thereby actively stimulate the release of von Willebrand factor (VWF), which is an essential glycoprotein of the vascular hemostasis.