B cell receptor specific for Chlamydia trachomatis major outer membrane protein (BCR-MOMP)

The B cell receptor (BCR) specific for the Chlamydia trachomatis major outer membrane protein (MOMP) is a primary mediator of the adaptive immune response against chlamydial infections. MOMP is a 40-kDa porin-like protein that constitutes approximately 60% of the bacterial outer membrane and contains four variable domains (VDs) which harbor immunodominant B cell epitopes (NIH, 2024; MDPI, 2024). Recognition of these epitopes by specific BCRs on B lymphocytes triggers signaling cascades involving the CD79A/B heterodimer, leading to B cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into plasma cells that secrete neutralizing antibodies, such as IgG and IgA (Wikipedia, 2024; MDPI, 2022). This target is central to vaccine development, as inducing a robust B cell response against MOMP is essential for preventing the establishment of infection and reducing the risk of severe sequelae such as trachoma, pelvic inflammatory disease, and infertility (NIH, 2018; LLNL, 2024). Current therapeutic efforts focus on subunit vaccines, such as the CTH522 candidate which has reached Phase I clinical trials, utilizing recombinant MOMP or synthetic peptides to elicit protective immunity (MDPI, 2022; NIH, 2025). Challenges in targeting this receptor include the difficulty of maintaining the native conformation of MOMP in vaccines and the high degree of serovar specificity in the resulting antibody response.

Other names

MOMP-specific B cell receptorChlamydia trachomatis MOMP-specific BCRAnti-MOMP B cell receptorOmpA-specific B cell receptor

Antigen-mediated activation of B cell receptors leading to B cell differentiation, clonal expansion, and production of neutralizing antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis.