Neisseria meningitidis Serogroup B Capsular Polysaccharide (NmB CPS)

The capsular polysaccharide of *Neisseria meningitidis* serogroup B is an α(2→8)-linked homopolymer of sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid) that forms a protective layer on bacterial cells. It is a major virulence factor, enabling the bacterium to evade the host immune system. Its structural similarity to human neural tissues results in poor immunogenicity, complicating vaccine development. Genes responsible for its synthesis are located within the cps locus on the chromosome. This molecule plays a crucial role in protecting bacteria from immune clearance during invasive infections.

Other names

Serogroup B capsuleGroup B meningococcal polysaccharideα(2→8)-linked polysialic acidN-acetylneuraminic acid homopolymer