Streptococcus agalactiae capsular polysaccharide serotype II (GBS CPS II)

Streptococcus agalactiae capsular polysaccharide serotype II is a complex carbohydrate structure located on the outermost surface of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) serotype II strains. It serves as a critical virulence factor by providing a physical barrier that inhibits host complement deposition and subsequent opsonophagocytosis by neutrophils (Lewis et al., 2004, PNAS). The chemical structure of the serotype II CPS consists of a repeating unit containing glucose, galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, and terminal sialic acid residues, which are essential for its anti-phagocytic properties (Jennings et al., 1980, Biochemistry). In clinical settings, GBS serotype II is a significant cause of invasive diseases, including neonatal sepsis, meningitis, and infections in immunocompromised adults. Because of its surface exposure and role in pathogenesis, this polysaccharide is a primary target for the development of glycoconjugate vaccines. These vaccines aim to induce high-affinity, serotype-specific antibodies that facilitate bacterial clearance through the immune system (Madhi et al., 2023, NEJM).

Other names

Group B Streptococcus type II capsular polysaccharideGBS serotype II CPSS. agalactiae type II polysaccharideGBS Type II CPS

Active immunization to induce opsonophagocytic antibodies that facilitate bacterial clearance