Vibrio cholerae antigens

Vibrio cholerae antigens are a diverse set of molecular components from the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, primarily used as targets for vaccine development to prevent cholera (WHO, 2023). The most significant antigens include the Cholera Toxin (CT), particularly its non-toxic B subunit (CTB), and the O-antigen of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) which defines the O1 and O139 serogroups (Harris et al., 2012; UniProt, 2024). These antigens are central to the disease's pathology: the LPS and toxin-coregulated pilus (TCP) facilitate bacterial attachment and colonization of the intestinal epithelium, while the Cholera Toxin triggers the massive efflux of water and electrolytes leading to severe dehydration (CDC, 2022). Vaccines targeting these antigens, such as Dukoral and Shanchol, work by stimulating the production of protective antibodies that either kill the bacteria (vibriocidal) or neutralize the toxin (Clemens et al., 2017). Understanding these antigens is crucial for managing cholera outbreaks and developing long-lasting immunological protection in endemic regions.

Other names

Cholera antigensV. cholerae surface antigensVibrio cholerae O1/O139 antigensCholera toxin and lipopolysaccharide antigens

Induction of mucosal and systemic immune responses, including the production of vibriocidal antibodies that inhibit bacterial colonization and antitoxin antibodies that neutralize cholera toxin activity (Clemens et al., 2017; WHO, 2023).