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Neisseria meningitidis Group Y Polysaccharide Capsule (Group Y Capsule)

Target: Group Y Capsule
Molecular classification: Polysaccharide, Capsular Polysaccharide

Overview

The polysaccharide capsule of *Neisseria meningitidis* Group Y is a heteropolymer composed of repeating units of α-2-6-linked N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) and D-glucose. It is a key virulence factor, enabling immune evasion and is the target of polysaccharide conjugate vaccines used to prevent invasive meningococcal disease. The capsule protects against phagocytosis and complement-mediated killing. Genetic variation, including O-acetylation variability and capsule switching, can affect vaccine efficacy.

Other names: NmY CapsuleGroup Y Capsular PolysaccharideNeisseria meningitidis serogroup Y capsule

Mechanism of action

Antibody-mediated complement activation and opsonophagocytosis following vaccination; vaccine prevents colonization and invasion.

Biological functions

Immune evasionProtection against phagocytosisAdherenceBiofilm formation

Disease associations

Invasive meningococcal diseaseMeningitisSepticemia

Safety considerations

Capsule switching leading to vaccine escapeLimited protection in certain age groups (infants)Potential for reduced vaccine efficacy due to genetic variation

Interacting drugs

Quadrivalent conjugate vaccines (A/C/W/Y)

1 more in the full profile.

Biomarkers

Capsular polysaccharide serotypingAntibody titers against Group Y polysaccharide

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