Are antibodies to the capsular polysaccharide of Neisseria meningitidis group B and Escherichia coli K1 associated with immunopathology?

Vaccine. 2006 Jan 16;24(3):221-8. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2005.07.084. Epub 2005 Aug 11.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Bacterial / immunology*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / pharmacology
  • Antigens, Bacterial / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Bacterial Capsules
  • Humans
  • Lipopolysaccharides / immunology*
  • Meningococcal Infections / immunology
  • Neisseria meningitidis, Serogroup B / immunology*
  • Polysaccharides, Bacterial / immunology*
  • Sialic Acids / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Bacterial
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antigens, Bacterial
  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Polysaccharides, Bacterial
  • Sialic Acids
  • capsular polysaccharide K1
  • polysialic acid