B-cell receptor specific for Neisseria meningitidis capsular polysaccharide (BCR-NmCP) (BCR-NmCP)

The B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for Neisseria meningitidis capsular polysaccharide is a membrane-bound immunoglobulin expressed on the surface of B lymphocytes that specifically recognizes the carbohydrate capsule of the meningococcus (Pollard et al., 2009). This receptor serves as the primary immunological target for meningococcal vaccines, which utilize purified or protein-conjugated polysaccharides to trigger B-cell activation and the subsequent production of protective antibodies (Frasch et al., 2005). Upon binding its specific polysaccharide antigen, the BCR initiates intracellular signaling pathways that lead to the differentiation of B cells into antibody-secreting plasma cells and long-lived memory B cells (Harrison et al., 2009). These antibodies provide protection against invasive disease primarily through complement-mediated bactericidal activity and opsonophagocytosis. A significant challenge in targeting this receptor exists for Serogroup B, as its capsular polysaccharide mimics human neural cell adhesion molecules (NCAM), leading to immune tolerance and potential autoimmune risks (Finne et al., 1983). Consequently, modern vaccine strategies for Serogroup B target surface proteins rather than the polysaccharide-specific BCR. The interaction between the vaccine antigen and the BCR is also critical for establishing herd immunity by reducing nasopharyngeal carriage of the bacteria.

Other names

Meningococcal polysaccharide-specific B-cell receptorAnti-meningococcal BCRNeisseria meningitidis capsular-specific BCR

Binding of vaccine-derived polysaccharide antigens to the B-cell receptor induces receptor cross-linking, internalisation, and activation of B-lymphocytes, leading to the production of antigen-specific protective antibodies and the establishment of immunological memory.