IMMUNOGENIC COMPOSITIONS OF LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HYALURONIC ACID AND METHODS TO PREVENT, TREAT AND DIAGNOSE INFECTIONS AND DISEASES CAUSED BY GROUP A AND GROUP C STREPTOCOCCI

摘要

The present invention provides antigenic compositions and methods for treatment and prevention of infection and disease caused by group A and group C streptococci. In particular, the invention provides low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid linked to a carrier and compositions comprising them. The compositions elicit antibodies to low molecular weight hyaluronic acid which are cross-reactive with group A and C streptococci and which are minimally cross-reactive with native hyaluronic acid. The invention is particularly useful for providing both active and passive immunogenic protection for those infected wiht or at risk infection with group A and group C streptococci. Additionally, the present invention provides methods and compositions useful for diagnosing infections and diseases caused by group A and group C streptococci.