Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B protein antigens and outer membrane vesicle-exposed epitopes (MenB antigens)

Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB) protein antigens and outer membrane vesicle (OMV)-exposed epitopes are the primary targets for vaccines against invasive meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B. Unlike other meningococcal serogroups, the MenB capsular polysaccharide is poorly immunogenic because it mimics human neural cell adhesion molecules, leading to the development of protein-based vaccines (Pizza et al., 2020, Science). Key protein targets include Factor H binding protein (fHbp), which inhibits the alternative complement pathway; Neisserial adhesin A (NadA), which facilitates host cell adhesion and invasion; and Neisserial heparin-binding antigen (NHBA), which contributes to serum resistance (Schneider et al., 2009, Nature; Comanducci et al., 2002, J Exp Med). Additionally, OMVs derived from specific strains present Porin A (PorA) and other surface epitopes that enhance the immune response (Serruto et al., 2010, PNAS). Vaccines like Bexsero and Trumenba interact with these targets by eliciting high titers of serum bactericidal antibodies that trigger the classical complement pathway to lyse the bacteria. These antigens are critical for overcoming the high genetic diversity of MenB strains and providing broad protection across different geographic regions (Biolchi et al., 2013, Expert Rev Vaccines).

Other names

MenB protein antigensNeisseria meningitidis serogroup B antigens4CMenB antigensMenB-fHBP antigensOuter membrane vesicle (OMV) antigensMeningococcal group B vaccine antigens

Induction of bactericidal antibodies that facilitate complement-mediated killing (serum bactericidal activity) and opsonophagocytosis of Neisseria meningitidis.