B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for rotavirus VP4 and VP7 antigens (BCR-RV-VP4/VP7)

B-cell receptors (BCRs) specific for rotavirus VP4 and VP7 antigens are specialized transmembrane proteins on the surface of B lymphocytes that play a critical role in the adaptive immune response against rotavirus infections. These receptors are composed of membrane-bound immunoglobulins that specifically recognize and bind to the VP4 (spike protein) and VP7 (outer capsid glycoprotein) antigens of the rotavirus (Desselberger, 2014). Upon antigen binding, the BCR initiates intracellular signaling pathways that lead to B-cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into memory B cells and plasma cells that secrete neutralizing antibodies (Angel et al., 2007). These neutralizing antibodies are the primary correlates of protection, as they prevent viral entry and uncoating in host intestinal cells (Greenberg & Estes, 2009). In clinical practice, these BCRs are the primary targets of live-attenuated rotavirus vaccines, such as Rotarix and RotaTeq, which aim to stimulate a protective immune memory (Patel et al., 2012). Monitoring the frequency and specificity of these BCRs serves as a vital tool in assessing vaccine immunogenicity and understanding the breadth of protection against various rotavirus strains.

Other names

Rotavirus-specific B-cell receptorAnti-VP4 B-cell receptorAnti-VP7 B-cell receptorSurface immunoglobulin specific for rotavirus

Vaccines provide viral antigens (VP4 and VP7) that bind to specific B-cell receptors, triggering B-cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into neutralizing antibody-secreting plasma cells and memory B cells (Patel et al., 2012).