Are antibodies to the capsular polysaccharide of Neisseria meningitidis group B and Escherichia coli K1 associated with immunopathology?
As polysialic acid (PSA), the capsule of Group B meningococcus (GBM) and Escherichia coli K1, is a component of mammalian glycopeptides, there is concern that vaccines against PSA could induce immunopathology. Purified PSA is not immunogenic; however, as a component of bacteria or bound to proteins, it induces protective antibodies. In this review, we did not unearth data indicating an association of IgG anti-PSA with immunopathology in experimental animals or humans. We found no increased incidence of autoimmunity from GBM infections in our review of the natural history/sequellae of Neisseria meningitis infections. Accordingly, we propose that clinical trials of PSA conjugate vaccines, be considered.
Stein
Daniel M
DM
Laboratory of Developmental and Molecular Immunity, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, USA.
Robbins
John
J
Miller
Mark A
MA
Lin
Feng-Ying C
FY
Schneerson
Rachel
R
D000818:Animals; D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial / Q000276:immunology*; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000276:immunology / Q000494:pharmacology; D000942:Antigens, Bacterial / Q000276:immunology*; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology*; D016667:Bacterial Capsules; D006801:Humans; D008070:Lipopolysaccharides / Q000276:immunology*; D008589:Meningococcal Infections / Q000276:immunology; D038541:Neisseria meningitidis, Serogroup B / Q000276:immunology*; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial / Q000276:immunology*; D012794:Sialic Acids / Q000276:immunology
D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000942:Antigens, Bacterial; D008070:Lipopolysaccharides; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial; D012794:Sialic Acids; C036962:capsular polysaccharide K1; C021319:polysialic acid