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

Authors

Walter Adams, San Jose State UniversityFollow

Files

Description

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.

About the Author

Walter Adams is an associate professor of Biological Sciences at San José State University. He completed his Ph.D. at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and conducted his postdoctoral research as an NIH IRACDA Scholar at Tufts University. His lab fosters a diverse and inclusive community that prioritizes student-centered research experiences. Their research focuses on understanding the epic microbial battle between white blood cells and bacteria during respiratory infections. He founded the Biology Department’s Innovating, Diversity, Access, and Equity (IDEA) Committee and serves on the College of Science Anti-Racism committee to promote student success and increase diversity across the sciences.

Date of Event

Fall 10-2024

Keywords

Pore-forming toxin, Respitory infection, Bacterial pathogen

Disciplines

Bacterial Infections and Mycoses | Biology | Cell and Developmental Biology | Immunology and Infectious Disease

Comments

1 streaming video file (60 min.) : digital, sound, color. Closed-captioned for the hearing impaired.

Recommended Citation

Adams, Walter, "The Hole Problem: Understanding How a Pore-Forming Toxin Promotes Respiratory Disease" (2024). University Scholar Series. 61.
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/uss/61