Streptococcus pneumoniae type 6a capsular polysaccharide (CPS 6a)

The Streptococcus pneumoniae type 6a capsular polysaccharide is a serotype-specific carbohydrate polymer that forms the outermost layer (capsule) of the bacterium S. pneumoniae. This capsule is a major virulence factor, protecting the bacterium from host immune responses. It is a key antigen in pneumococcal vaccines, stimulating protective immunity against disease.

Other names

S. pneumoniae type 6a capsulePneumococcal polysaccharide type 6aType 6a CPS

Vaccines stimulate the production of antibodies that opsonize the bacteria, promoting phagocytosis and complement-mediated killing. Antibodies targeting type 6a CPS neutralize its ability to evade immune responses.