StaphVAX

StaphVAX is a bivalent conjugate vaccine developed by Nabi Biopharmaceuticals for the prevention of *Staphylococcus aureus* infections, particularly bacteremia. The vaccine is composed of purified *S. aureus* type 5 and type 8 capsular polysaccharides, which are covalently conjugated to a carrier protein, recombinant nontoxic *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* exotoxin A (rEPA). This conjugation is designed to convert the T-cell independent polysaccharide antigens into T-cell dependent antigens, thereby inducing a more robust and long-lasting immune response characterized by the production of opsonophagocytic antibodies. StaphVAX was primarily targeted at high-risk populations, such as patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis and those undergoing orthopedic surgery with prosthetic implants. Although an initial Phase III trial showed a significant reduction in *S. aureus* bacteremia, a subsequent confirmatory Phase III trial in 2005 failed to meet its primary endpoint, leading to the termination of the vaccine's development.

Brand names

StaphVAX

Other names

S. aureus Type 5 & 8 Capsular Polysaccharide ConjugateStaphylococcus aureus polysaccharide conjugate vaccineStaphylococcus aureus vaccine