Dengue virus envelope protein (E protein) (DENV E)

The Dengue virus envelope (E) protein is the principal surface glycoprotein of the Dengue virus (DENV), a member of the Flaviviridae family that exists as four distinct serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4) [1, 2]. It is a class II viral fusion protein that organizes into homodimers on the surface of mature virions and is responsible for mediating viral attachment to host cell receptors and subsequent membrane fusion within the endosome [3, 4]. Structurally, the E protein consists of three domains: DI (structural), DII (fusion loop), and DIII (receptor binding), with DIII being the primary target for neutralizing antibodies [5]. As the major immunogen, it is the central focus for vaccine design and the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies intended to provide broad protection across all serotypes [6, 10]. However, the E protein is also implicated in antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), a phenomenon where sub-neutralizing antibodies facilitate viral entry into Fc-receptor-bearing cells, increasing the risk of severe dengue [7]. Consequently, drug development efforts prioritize the identification of highly conserved epitopes to ensure pan-serotype efficacy and minimize safety risks associated with partial immunity [8, 11].

Other names

Envelope glycoproteinE proteinDengue virus E proteinDENV E proteinDengue virus envelope glycoprotein

Neutralization of viral particles by binding to the envelope protein, thereby preventing viral attachment to host cell receptors and inhibiting the pH-dependent membrane fusion process required for viral entry [3, 5].