B-cell receptor specific for Haemophilus influenzae type b polyribosylribitol phosphate (BCR-Hib-PRP)

The B-cell receptor specific for Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) polyribosylribitol phosphate (PRP) is a membrane-bound immunoglobulin on B-lymphocytes that recognizes the Hib capsular polysaccharide (CDC, 2022). This receptor is essential for the humoral immune response against Hib, a major cause of meningitis and pneumonia in children (WHO, 2023). PRP is a T-cell independent antigen, meaning it does not naturally induce a strong memory response in infants; however, conjugate vaccines link PRP to carrier proteins to engage T-cell help via these BCRs (Pichichero, 2013). Binding of the vaccine antigen to the BCR triggers B-cell activation, clonal expansion, and the production of high-affinity IgG antibodies (Pollard et al., 2009). This target is central to the success of global immunization programs that have nearly eliminated invasive Hib disease in many regions (Watt et al., 2009).

Other names

Hib-PRP-specific B-cell receptorAnti-PRP B-cell receptorPolyribosylribitol phosphate-specific BCRHaemophilus influenzae type b capsular polysaccharide receptorBCR-Hib-PRP

Vaccine antigens (PRP or PRP-protein conjugates) bind to the B-cell receptor, inducing receptor clustering and signaling that leads to B-cell proliferation, isotype switching, and differentiation into memory B cells and antibody-secreting plasma cells (Pollard et al., 2009; Pichichero, 2013).