The fibrinogen binding protein of Staphylococcus epidermidis is a target for opsonic antibodies

Antibodies against the fibrinogen binding protein (Fbe) of Staphylococcus epidermidis significantly increased macrophage phagocytosis. Antibodies against autolysin E were opsonic but to a lesser extent. Antibodies against a novel, putatively surface-located antigen were unable to enhance phagocytosis. The severity of systemic infection of mice with S. epidermidis was reduced if the bacteria were preopsonized with anti-Fbe prior to administration. Fbe is thus a strong candidate for protein vaccination against S. epidermidis infection, and antibodies against Fbe can be used to prevent or treat infections caused by S. epidermidis.