An integrated molecular and immunological approach towards a meningococcal group B vaccine

There has been a notable lack of success in producing an effective vaccine against Neisseria meningitidis group B infections, despite such prophylaxis being available for group A and C disease. The reasons for this are reviewed and evidence presented that a vaccine based on the group B capsular polysaccharide should be pursued. To be effective, a clear understanding of, and improvement in the poor immunogenicity of the polysaccharide is required. Consequently, the nature of the antigenic structure involved in immune recognition has been evaluated at the molecular level and reasons for the poor immunogenicity of the B polysaccharide are presented. Methods of increasing the immunogenicity are proposed with the intention of undertaking human volunteer trials.