Discovery of Novel Pneumococcal Serotype 35D, a Natural WciG-Deficient Variant of Serotype 35B.

ABSTRACT: Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among those at the extremes of age. Its capsular polysaccharide is essential for systemic virulence. Over 90 serologically distinct pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides (serotypes) are recognized, but they are unequal in prevalence. Because antibodies against the capsule are protective, polysaccharide conjugate vaccines, which are constructed against the most prevalent serotypes, have caused great reductions in pneumococcal disease caused by these serotypes. In response, however, the relative prevalences of serotypes have shifted. Certain previously rare serotypes, such as serotype 35B, are increasing in prevalence. Serotype 35B is thus a likely future vaccine candidate, but d

SUBMITTER: Geno KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5405259 | biostudies-literature | 2017 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature