Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 17F capsular polysaccharide (Spn17F) (Spn17F)

Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 17F capsular polysaccharide is a complex carbohydrate structure that coats the surface of the 17F strain of the pneumococcus bacterium. This polysaccharide serves as a vital virulence factor by providing a physical barrier that prevents host immune cells from performing opsonophagocytosis, thereby allowing the pathogen to survive and disseminate within the host [1]. In clinical medicine, this molecule is a key therapeutic target for active immunization strategies. It is included as an antigen in specific polyvalent vaccines, such as the 21-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV21) and the 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) [2, 3]. Upon vaccination, the host's immune system generates serotype-specific antibodies that recognize the 17F polysaccharide, facilitating the clearance of the bacteria during an infection. Targeting this molecule is essential for preventing a range of conditions, including community-acquired pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis caused by this specific serotype [4].

Other names

Pneumococcus serotype 17FS. pneumoniae 17F17F capsular antigenPneumococcal polysaccharide serotype 17F

Induction of active immunity through the production of serotype-specific opsonophagocytic antibodies [2, 3]