gD2

gD2 refers to the recombinant glycoprotein D of the Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), a key viral envelope protein essential for viral entry into host cells. As a vaccine antigen, gD2 is designed to elicit high-titer neutralizing antibodies and stimulate cellular immune responses to prevent or treat genital herpes infections. It has been a central component of several high-profile vaccine candidates, including GlaxoSmithKline's Simplirix (gD2-AS04) and Genocea Biosciences' GEN-003 (which combined gD2 with the ICP4 antigen). While early clinical trials demonstrated some efficacy in specific populations, such as HSV-1/HSV-2 seronegative women, major programs were discontinued after failing to meet primary endpoints in broader Phase 3 trials or due to strategic pivots. Currently, Shionogi is evaluating the gD2 antigens previously developed by Genocea for potential further development.

Other names

Glycoprotein DHSV-2 gDHSV2 gDHSV 2 gDRecombinant HSV-2 glycoprotein DgD2tgD-2tgD 2tHerpes simplex virus type 2 glycoprotein D