Neutralization of Multiple Staphylococcal Superantigens by a Single‐Chain Protein Consisting of Affinity‐Matured, Variable Domain Repeats

Staphylococcus aureus secretes various toxins that act as superantigens by stimulating a large fraction of the host's T cells. Toxin binding to variable domains of T cell receptor beta chains (Vbeta) leads to massive release of inflammatory molecules and potentially to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Previously, we generated soluble forms of different Vbeta domains with a high affinity for binding superantigens. However, a broader spectrum antagonist is required for the neutralization of multiple toxins. In the present study, we expressed Vbeta domains in tandem as a single-chain protein and neutralized the clinically important superantigens staphylococcal enterotoxin B and TSS toxin-1 with a single agent.