Streptococcus pneumoniae Polysaccharide Conjugated to Carrier Protein(s) (PCV)

Streptococcus pneumoniae polysaccharide conjugated to carrier protein(s) refers to a molecular complex in which capsular polysaccharides derived from S. pneumoniae are covalently linked to immunogenic carrier proteins. This conjugation enhances immune responses, especially in populations with weaker immunity such as infants and young children. The target molecule consists of capsular polysaccharides or oligosaccharide fragments from S. pneumoniae, representing specific serotypes, and a carrier protein covalently attached to each polysaccharide fragment (e.g., CRM197, tetanus toxoid). The conjugate vaccine induces both humoral and cellular immune responses, promotes long-term protective immunity, and reduces nasopharyngeal colonization rates. It forms the basis for licensed pediatric vaccines protecting against invasive diseases caused by multiple S. pneumoniae serotypes.

Other names

Pneumococcal Conjugate VaccinePCV13PCV15Prevnar13VaxneuvanceS. pneumoniae polysaccharide-protein conjugate

Induces T-cell dependent B cell activation, leading to production of high-affinity antibodies against Streptococcus pneumoniae capsular polysaccharides.