Streptococcus pneumoniae Capsular Polysaccharide
Date
2019
Authors
Paton, J.
Trappetti, C.
Editors
Fischetti, V.A.
Novick, R.P.
Ferretti, J.F.
Portnoy, D.A.
Rood, J.I.
Novick, R.P.
Ferretti, J.F.
Portnoy, D.A.
Rood, J.I.
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Microbiology Spectrum, 2019; 7(2):GPP3-0019- 2018-1-GPP3-0019- 2018-15
Statement of Responsibility
James C. Paton and Claudia Trappetti
Conference Name
Abstract
The polysaccharide capsule of Streptococcus pneumoniae is the dominant surface structure of the organism and plays a critical role in virulence, principally by interfering with host opsonophagocytic clearance mechanisms. The capsule is the target of current pneumococcal vaccines, but there are 98 currently recognised polysaccharide serotypes and protection is strictly serotype-specific. Widespread use of these vaccines is driving changes in serotype prevalence in both carriage and disease. This chapter summarises current knowledge on the role of the capsule and its regulation in pathogenesis, the mechanisms of capsule synthesis, the genetic basis for serotype differences, and provides insights into how so many structurally distinct capsular serotypes have evolved. Such knowledge will inform ongoing refinement of pneumococcal vaccination strategies.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Published: 12 April 2019
Access Status
Rights
© 2019 American Society for Microbiology. All rights reserved.