Tetanus toxoid heavy chain fragment C (TTCF)

Recombinant tetanus toxoid heavy chain fragment C (TTCF) is a 50 kDa non-toxic protein domain derived from the C-terminus of the tetanus neurotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani [1]. It serves as the primary receptor-binding module of the toxin, facilitating neuronal entry by interacting with polysialogangliosides and protein co-receptors like nidogens at the neuromuscular junction [2]. In clinical pharmacology, TTCF is a critical target for vaccine development because it contains potent B-cell and T-cell epitopes that elicit a robust and protective immune response [3]. The interface between TTCF and the B-cell receptor (BCR) or antibodies is the specific site where neutralizing immunity is established, preventing the full toxin from binding to its neuronal targets. Beyond its role in tetanus prevention, TTCF is widely utilized as a carrier protein in conjugate vaccines to enhance the immunogenicity of polysaccharide antigens in infants and immunocompromised populations [4].

Other names

Fragment C of tetanus toxinTetCHc domain of tetanus neurotoxinTetanus toxin fragment CTetanus neurotoxin fragment C

Induces active immunity by engaging B-cell receptors to stimulate the production of neutralizing antibodies and providing T-cell epitopes for long-term immunological memory.