Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and compositions for eliciting an immune response against Neisseria spp. bacteria in a subject, using vesicle vaccines made from Neisseria strains have decreased or no detectable expression of a product of LpxL1 gene, and which optionally overexpress fHbp.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides compositions comprising a polysaccharide derivative, and methods of their preparation and use for the prevention or treatment of diseases caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, particularly group B (NmB) strains, and by E. coli K1. The invention provides a de-N-acetylated PS derivative in which one or more residues of the PS has been modified by de-N-acetylation. The invention also includes derivatives in which one or more of the N-acetyl groups of PS containing de-N-acetylated PS are replaced with other N-acyl groups, usually a lower acyl group of C2-C3. Further, the invention includes de-N-acetylated PS derivatives containing long chain hydrocarbons, as well as conjugates in which the de-N-acetylated PS derivative is linked to a carrier, e.g., a carrier protein.

Abstract: Novel bactericidal antibodies against Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (“MenB”) are disclosed. The antibodies either do not cross-react or minimally cross-react with host tissue polysialic acid and hence pose minimal risk of autoimmune activity. The antibodies are used to identify molecular mimetics of unique epitopes found on MenB or E. coli K1. Examples of such peptide mimetics are described that elicit serum antibody capable of activating complement-mediated bacteriolysis of MenB. Vaccine compositions containing such mimetics can be used to prevent MenB or E. coli K1 disease without the risk of evoking autoantibody.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and vaccines for the prevention of diseases caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, particularly serogroup B strains.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and vaccines for the prevention of diseases caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, particularly serogroup B strains.

Abstract: Molecular mimetics of a surface-exposed epitope on loop 4 of PorA of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB) P1.2 serosubtype and antibodies produced against the same are disclosed. Compositions containing such molecular mimetics or the antibodies thereto can be used to prevent MenB disease, as well as for diagnosis of MenB infection.

Abstract: A method for boosting an immune response against meningococcal capsular antigen is disclosed. The method entails administering a first glycoconjugate vaccine composition to a subject to provide an initial state of anti-meningococcal immunity, and then boosting the anti-meningococcal immunity by administration of a second, boosting vaccination. Also disclosed is the use of vaccine compositions in the preparation of anti-meningococcal medicaments. The use entails administering a first glycoconjugate vaccine composition to a subject to provide an initial state of anti-meningococcal immunity, and then boosting the anti-meningococcal immunity by administration of a second, boosting vaccination.