Hemagglutinin B (HagB) (HagB)

Hemagglutinin B (HagB) is a major nonfimbrial adhesin and virulence factor expressed on the surface of the Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, a primary pathogen in chronic periodontitis. HagB plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease by mediating the attachment of the bacteria to host tissues, including gingival epithelial cells and human coronary artery endothelial cells, and by facilitating the acquisition of essential heme from erythrocytes. Beyond its role in adhesion, HagB is a potent immunogen that induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-alpha, contributing to the localized tissue destruction characteristic of gum disease. In the context of drug development, HagB is a primary target for experimental periodontal vaccines and therapeutic inhibitors. Research has demonstrated that neutralizing HagB can significantly reduce bacterial colonization and subsequent alveolar bone loss in animal models. While no HagB-targeted therapies are currently approved for clinical use, it remains a high-priority target for mucosal vaccines and small-molecule inhibitors (such as salivary histatins) aimed at preventing the systemic complications associated with P. gingivalis infections, including its linked roles in cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration.

Other names

HagBNonfimbrial adhesin HagBPorphyromonas gingivalis hemagglutinin BHemagglutinin B protein

Inhibition of bacterial adherence to host epithelial and endothelial cells; neutralization of virulence-mediated pro-inflammatory signaling; induction of protective mucosal and systemic immunity via vaccination.