Neisseria meningitidis capsular polysaccharide (serogroup W) (NmW capsule or MenW capsule)

The *Neisseria meningitidis* capsular polysaccharide (serogroup W) is a high-molecular-weight polymer consisting of alternating sialic acid and D-galactose units, linked by α-(2→6) and α-(1→4) glycosidic bonds[5]. The capsule is the major virulence factor for *N. meningitidis*, providing resistance to host immune defenses and underpinning the antigenic basis for serogroup W classification. Polysaccharide capsules are central to pathogenesis and form the antigenic target for conjugate vaccines designed to prevent invasive meningococcal disease[1][5][7]. Genes required for capsule biosynthesis and surface expression are organized in a chromosomal locus known as *cps*[1][6]. Conjugate vaccines incorporating the MenW capsule are widely used and mediate protection by inducing functional, serogroup-specific antibody responses[1][5][3]. If you require further molecular detail (e.g., specific linkage types, structural models), refer to high-resolution studies on capsular conformation[5].

Other names

MenW capsuleNmW capsuleserogroup W polysaccharideW-135 capsule

Induction of protective, serogroup-specific antibodies against the capsule, leading to complement-mediated killing of the bacterium Prevention of invasive infection via immune memory