Streptococcus pneumoniae Capsular Polysaccharide Antigens (CPS)

Streptococcus pneumoniae capsular polysaccharide antigens are complex carbohydrate structures forming the outermost layer of S. pneumoniae. These are major virulence factors, enabling immune evasion. There are 98 recognized serotypes based on structural differences. These antigens are the primary targets for pneumococcal vaccines. Capsular polysaccharides act as T-cell-independent antigens. Current pneumococcal vaccines use purified or conjugated forms of these antigens from selected serotypes, providing serotype-specific protection. They are also used in diagnostic assays to identify specific pneumococcal serotypes.

Other names

Pneumococcal Capsular PolysaccharideS. pneumoniae Capsular PolysaccharidesCapsular Polysaccharide AntigensPneumococcal CPS

Active immunization via antibody production against specific serotypes, leading to opsonophagocytosis and complement-mediated killing of bacteria expressing the corresponding capsular polysaccharide.