Neisseria meningitidis adhesin A

Neisseria meningitidis adhesin A is identical to the above-described adhesion protein of Neisseria meningitidis. It is essential for bacterial adhesion to host nasopharyngeal epithelial and endothelial cells, a key step in the development of meningococcal disease. By mediating this adhesion, it supports bacterial colonization, invasion, and systemic spread. Its immunogenicity allows it to elicit protective antibodies that inhibit adhesion, making it a critical antigen for meningococcal vaccine development. Vaccines targeting adhesin A aim to prevent initial colonization, thereby reducing the risk of severe disease. Additionally, it may be used in diagnostics to detect Neisseria meningitidis, aiding in rapid identification and treatment of infections.