Conserved surface antigens from nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis (NTHi-Mcat antigens)

Conserved surface antigens from nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and Moraxella catarrhalis (Mcat) are a group of proteins targeted to prevent respiratory infections. These bacteria are major causes of acute otitis media in children and exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Source: PubMed 26433155). The primary antigens include Protein D, Protein E, and Pilin A from NTHi, and Ubiquitous surface protein A2 (UspA2) from Mcat (Source: PubMed 30111518). These proteins play critical roles in bacterial pathogenesis, including adhesion to host airway epithelial cells, biofilm formation, and evasion of the host's innate immune system (Source: PubMed 21115200). Vaccines incorporating these antigens, such as those developed by GSK, aim to induce high titers of specific IgG antibodies and enhance opsonophagocytic killing of the bacteria (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02427308). By targeting conserved regions, these vaccines provide broad protection against various strains of NTHi and Mcat, potentially reducing the global burden of respiratory disease and antibiotic use.

Other names

NTHi-Mcat vaccine antigensProtein DProtein EPilin AUbiquitous surface protein A2UspA2PDPEPilA

Vaccine-mediated induction of active immunity through the production of antigen-specific antibodies (IgG) and activation of opsonophagocytic pathways to neutralize and clear bacterial pathogens from the respiratory tract.