Abstract: This disclosure relates to modified Streptococcus pneumonia pneumolysm (PLY) proteins which lack hemolytic activity and can be used as immunogens in an immunogenic composition or vaccine against invasive pneumococcol diseases caused by S. pneumonia.

Abstract: Assays for detecting anti-streptococcal antibodies in biological samples using one or more streptococcal antigens are described herein. Various combinations of antigens may be used in the assays. For example, one or more of Ply, PhtD, PhtE, LytB and PcpA may be utilized. Additional streptococcal antigens may also be used. The assays may also be used in combination with assays that detect streptococcal nucleic acids.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for eliciting an immune response against Streptococcus pneumoniae. More particularly, the compositions and methods relate to immunogenic polypeptides, including fragments of PhtD and variants thereof, and nucleic acids, vectors and transfected cells that encode or express the polypeptides. Methods of making and using the immunogenic polypeptides are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to vaccines against bacterial pathogens. In particular, the invention relates to modified epitopes of bacterial antigens.