L-Ficolin and Capsular Polysaccharide-Specific IgG in Cord Serum Contribute Synergistically to Opsonophagocytic Killing of Serotype III and V Group B Streptococci.
AuthorsFujieda M, Aoyagi Y, Matsubara K, Takeuchi Y, Fujimaki W, Matsushita M, Bohnsack JF, Takahashi S
JournalInfect Immun
PubMed ID22451515
Group B streptococci (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae) are the most common cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis. Serotype-specific IgG antibody is known to protect neonates against GBS infections by promoting opsonophagocytosis. The L-ficolin-mediated lectin pathway of the complement is also a potential mechanism for opsonization of GBS, because L-ficolin activates the ... More