Neutralization of multiple staphylococcal superantigens by a single-chain protein consisting of affinity-matured, variable domain repeats

J Infect Dis. 2008 Aug 1;198(3):344-8. doi: 10.1086/589776.

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus secretes various toxins that act as superantigens by stimulating a large fraction of the host's T cells. Toxin binding to variable domains of T cell receptor beta chains (Vbeta) leads to massive release of inflammatory molecules and potentially to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Previously, we generated soluble forms of different Vbeta domains with a high affinity for binding superantigens. However, a broader spectrum antagonist is required for the neutralization of multiple toxins. In the present study, we expressed Vbeta domains in tandem as a single-chain protein and neutralized the clinically important superantigens staphylococcal enterotoxin B and TSS toxin-1 with a single agent.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Bacterial / immunology*
  • Bacterial Toxins / immunology
  • Enterotoxins / immunology
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / genetics
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / immunology*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / immunology*
  • Superantigens / immunology*

Substances

  • Antigens, Bacterial
  • Bacterial Toxins
  • Enterotoxins
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell
  • Superantigens
  • enterotoxin F, Staphylococcal
  • enterotoxin B, staphylococcal