Recurrent variable region gene usage and somatic mutation in the human antibody response to the capsular polysaccharide of Streptococcus pneumoniae type 23F.

ABSTRACT: Combinatorial cloning and expression library analysis were used to isolate human antibody Fab fragments specific for the capsular polysaccharide of Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 23F. Thirty 23F-specific Fabs were isolated from seven vaccinated donors, and the sequences of the heavy (H)- and light (L)-chain variable regions were determined. All individuals utilized either the Vkappa A23 L chain, the Vkappa L6 L chain, or both chains in forming the 23F-specific combining site. Vkappa A23 L chains paired primarily with VH3-23 H chains. Vkappa L6 L chains were more promiscuous in heavy-chain usage between individuals. Both H and L chains were mutated, primarily in the complementarity-determining regions, compared to their closest germ line counterpart, suggesting a recall response that has

SUBMITTER: Zhou J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC128163 | biostudies-literature | 2002 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature