Neisseria meningitidis capsular polysaccharide serogroup B (NmB CPS)

The capsular polysaccharide of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (NmB) is a key surface structure and virulence factor of this Gram-negative bacterium. It consists primarily of polymers made from α(2→8)-linked polysialic acid, closely mimicking human neural cell adhesion molecules. This mimicry contributes to immune evasion but also complicates vaccine development. While essential for virulence by inhibiting complement and phagocytosis, the capsule is not directly targeted by current vaccines due to safety and immunogenicity concerns. Instead, protein-based vaccines targeting other surface antigens are used.

Other names

Group B capsular polysaccharideNmB capsular polysaccharidePoly-α(2→8)-N-acetylneuraminic acidSerogroup B capsule

Not directly targeted by current vaccines; protein-based vaccines target other surface antigens.