Diphtheria Toxin Variant CRM197 (CRM197)

CRM197 is a genetically detoxified, non-toxic mutant of diphtheria toxin. It is widely used as a carrier protein in conjugate vaccines to enhance the immunogenicity of polysaccharides and haptens, which are otherwise poorly immunogenic. It retains strong immunostimulant properties, making it effective for use in vaccines as an antigen carrier. There is also emerging interest in potential antitumor applications due to its ability to bind soluble HB-EGF—a factor overexpressed in some cancers.

Other names

Cross-Reactive Material 197Corynebacterium diphtheriae CRM197 protein

Converts T-cell independent antigens into T-cell dependent antigens, facilitating robust immune responses to conjugated antigens.