Bovine herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein D (BoHV-1 gD)

Bovine herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein D (BoHV-1 gD) is an essential component of the viral envelope that plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of alphaherpesviruses in cattle. It acts as the primary receptor-binding protein, specifically interacting with host cell receptors such as Nectin-1 (CD111) and the poliovirus receptor (PVR) to initiate viral entry via endocytosis or direct membrane fusion. Upon binding, gD undergoes conformational changes that recruit the gH/gL complex and glycoprotein B to form the viral fusion machinery. Due to its central role in infection and its high immunogenicity, gD is the major target for the development of neutralizing antibodies and cellular immunity. It is a cornerstone antigen in modern veterinary vaccinology, including subunit, DNA, and marker vaccines designed to control Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) and respiratory disease complexes. Beyond prophylactic applications, BoHV-1 gD is being explored for its potential in oncolytic virus design and as a target for small-molecule entry inhibitors.

Other names

BoHV-1 gIVGlycoprotein IVBovine alphaherpesvirus 1 glycoprotein DBovine herpesvirus type 1 envelope glycoprotein D

Neutralization of viral entry by blocking attachment to cellular receptors and induction of both humoral (neutralizing antibodies) and cell-mediated immune responses (CD4+ and CD8+ T cells).