heptavalent GBS polysaccharide vaccine

A heptavalent GBS polysaccharide vaccine is a type of conjugate vaccine designed to prevent Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infections, particularly in newborns through maternal immunization. GBS is a bacterium that can cause serious diseases like sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis in infants. The vaccine works by conjugating capsular polysaccharides (CPS) from seven different GBS serotypes to a carrier protein, such as CRM197 or tetanus toxoid. This conjugation enhances the immune response, leading to the production of serotype-specific IgG antibodies in the mother. These antibodies are then transferred across the placenta to the fetus, providing passive immunity to the newborn. The primary mechanism of action involves these antibodies mediating opsonophagocytic killing of GBS bacteria. Pfizer is a prominent developer in the field of GBS conjugate vaccines, with a hexavalent version (GBS6) having undergone clinical evaluation.

Other names

Group B Streptococcus polysaccharide vaccineGBS vaccine