B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 capsular polysaccharide (BCR (W-135 specific))

The B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 capsular polysaccharide is a specialized membrane-bound immunoglobulin found on the surface of B cells. It plays a pivotal role in the adaptive immune system by recognizing and binding to the unique capsular polysaccharide epitopes of the W-135 serogroup, which is characterized by a repeating sequence of galactose and sialic acid (PMID: 11553243). This interaction is the fundamental step in the efficacy of meningococcal conjugate vaccines, where the BCR-antigen binding triggers B-cell activation and the subsequent production of protective antibodies. These antibodies facilitate the clearance of the bacteria through complement-mediated lysis and opsonophagocytosis, thereby preventing invasive meningococcal disease (PMID: 22438871). As a therapeutic target in vaccinology, the BCR is engaged to establish immunological memory, ensuring a rapid and robust response upon subsequent exposure to the pathogen (Janeway's Immunobiology). Understanding the specificity of this receptor is crucial for the development of vaccines that provide broad and lasting protection against various meningococcal serogroups. The receptor's activation leads to the differentiation of B cells into long-lived plasma cells and memory B cells, which are essential for long-term immunity. In clinical practice, the success of targeting this receptor is measured by serum bactericidal activity, which correlates with protection against infection (FDA: Menveo Label).

Other names

Meningococcal serogroup W-135 specific B-cell receptorAnti-W-135 BCRNeisseria meningitidis serogroup W BCRW-135 polysaccharide-specific BCR

The vaccine antigen binds to the B-cell receptor, inducing receptor clustering and activation of downstream signaling cascades (e.g., via CD79A/B) that lead to B-cell differentiation into plasma cells and memory B cells (Janeway's Immunobiology; PMID: 22438871).