OLIGOSIALIC ACID DERIVATIVES, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE, AND IMMUNOLOGICAL USES

摘要

Provided are methods of producing, and compositions comprising, isolated alpha (2?8) or (2?9) oligosialic acid derivatives bearing a non-reducing end enriched for one or more de-N-acetyl residues and resistant to degradation by exoneuraminidase. A representative production method involves: (i) treating an alpha (2?8) or (2?9) oligosialic acid precursor having a reducing end and a non-reducin end with sodium borohydride under conditions for de-N-acetylating the non-reducing end; and (ii) isolating alpha (2?8) or (2?9) oligosialic acid derivatives having one or more de-N-acetylated residues and a non-reducing end that is resistant to degradation by exoneuraminidase. Also provided are antibodies specific for the derivatives, kits, and methods of use including protection against and detection of E. coli K1 and N. meningitidis bacterial infection, and in diagnosing and treating cancer.