Antibodies Targeting a Conserved Surface Polysaccharide Are Protective Against a Wide Range of Microbial Pathogens Producing β-1–6-Linked Poly-N-Acetylglucosamine (PNAG)

The β-1–6-linked poly-N-acetylglucosamine (PNAG) polymer is a conserved surface polysaccharide produced by many bacteria, fungi, and protozoan (and even filarial) parasites. This wide-ranging expression makes PNAG an attractive target for vaccine development, as it potentially encompasses a broad range of microorganisms. Significant progress has been made in discovering important properties of the biology of PNAG expression in recent years. The molecular characterization and regulation of operons for the production of PNAG biosynthetic proteins and enzymes have been studied in many bacteria. In addition, the physiological function of PNAG has been further elucidated. PNAG-based vaccines and PNAG-targeting antibodies have shown great efficacy in preclinical research. Furthermore, clinical tests for both vaccines and antibodies have been carried out in humans and economically important animals, and the results are promising. Although it is not destined to be a smooth road, we are optimistic about new vaccines and immunotherapeutics targeting PNAG becoming validated and eventually licensed for clinical use against multiple infectious agents.