B-cell receptor specific for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y capsular polysaccharide (BCR-MenY-CPS) (BCR-MenY-CPS)

The B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y capsular polysaccharide is a specialized surface-bound immunoglobulin that mediates the adaptive immune response against serogroup Y meningococci (CDC, 2023). This receptor specifically recognizes the unique chemical structure of the serogroup Y capsule, which consists of alternating units of glucose and sialic acid (PubMed, PMID: 6751158). When this BCR encounters its cognate antigen, particularly in the form of a polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccine, it triggers B-cell activation and differentiation into plasma cells (WHO, 2011). These plasma cells then secrete high-affinity antibodies that provide protection by promoting complement-mediated killing and opsonization of the bacteria (PubMed, PMID: 21939495). This receptor is the fundamental target for MenACWY vaccines, which aim to establish protective immunity and prevent invasive diseases such as meningitis and septicemia (FDA, 2020). The interaction between the vaccine antigen and the BCR is enhanced in conjugate vaccines by the recruitment of T-cell help, leading to robust memory B-cell formation. Monitoring the efficacy of drugs targeting this receptor typically involves measuring serum bactericidal activity, which correlates with clinical protection. Overall, this BCR is a critical component in the prevention of meningococcal outbreaks globally.

Other names

MenY-specific B-cell receptorAnti-MenY CPS BCRNeisseria meningitidis serogroup Y polysaccharide receptorB-cell receptor specific for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y capsular polysaccharide epitopes

The vaccine antigen binds to the B-cell receptor, inducing receptor cross-linking and internalization; in conjugate vaccines, the carrier protein-derived peptides are presented to T-helper cells, which provide signals for B-cell proliferation, isotype switching, and affinity maturation into memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells (PubMed, PMID: 21939495).