pneumococcal polysaccharide serotype 3

Pneumococcal polysaccharide serotype 3 is a specific capsular antigen derived from or mimicking the surface of *Streptococcus pneumoniae* serotype 3. Serotype 3 is a major cause of invasive pneumococcal disease and is notoriously difficult to target effectively with existing vaccines due to its thick mucoid capsule and its ability to shed large amounts of capsular polysaccharide, which can neutralize antibodies before they reach the bacterial surface. The Erasmus Universitair Medisch Centrum Rotterdam (Erasmus MC) has been a key developer in this area, focusing on the creation of synthetic oligosaccharide versions of this polysaccharide. These synthetic mimics are designed to provide a more well-defined and consistent antigen for conjugate vaccines, potentially improving the opsonophagocytic antibody response compared to traditional purified polysaccharides. The drug functions as a vaccine antigen that stimulates the immune system to produce serotype-specific antibodies, facilitating the recognition and destruction of the bacteria by immune cells.

Brand names

Pneumovax 23Pneumovax23Pneumovax-23Prevnar 13Prevnar13Prevnar-13

Other names

Pneumococcal serotype 3 capsular polysaccharideS3PSS-3PSS 3PSStreptococcus pneumoniae serotype 3 polysaccharide