We are analysing new capsule variants of S. pneumoniae in various different environments (different growth media). Because polysaccharides for pneumococcal vaccine production are derived from in vitro cultures, a nutrient-dependent variation could lead to antigenic preparations that differ from the in vivo antigen. Capsule variation could also impair diagnostic procedures such as classical serotyping, which is based on polysaccharide-specific antigen-antibody reaction.
We also try to understand the regulation of the polysaccharide capsule biosynthesis in Streptococcus pneumoniae. Understanding the metabolic flux of different carbohydrates and their relationship to capsule expression is important considering the wide range of host-derived glycans the pneumococcus encounters during its interaction in the human host. Knowledge about the pneumococcal metabolism and mechanism of capsule biosynthesis is also important to recognize potential new drug targets.
Click here to read more about new capsule variants of S. pneumoniae (Serotype 19a)
Click here to read more about new capsule variants of S. pneumoniae (Serotype 23b)
Click here to read more about the regulation of the polysaccharide capsule biosynthesis in Streptococcus pneumoniae
