Dengue virus peptide epitopes (DENV epitopes)

Dengue virus peptide epitopes are specific amino acid sequences within the Dengue virus (DENV) polyprotein that are recognized by the host's immune system, specifically B-cells and T-cells (Immune Epitope Database, 2024). These epitopes are derived from both structural proteins (Envelope, Membrane, and Capsid) and non-structural proteins (NS1, NS2A, NS2B, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, and NS5) (WHO, 2023). The Envelope (E) protein contains critical B-cell epitopes that are the primary targets for neutralizing antibodies, while non-structural proteins like NS3 and NS5 are rich in T-cell epitopes essential for cellular immunity (PubMed, PMID: 24103314). In the context of vaccine development, these epitopes are the functional targets used to elicit a protective immune response against all four DENV serotypes (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2020). However, the presence of certain epitopes can also lead to antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), where sub-neutralizing antibodies facilitate viral entry into Fc-receptor-bearing cells, complicating therapeutic strategies (Science, 2016). Understanding the landscape of these epitopes is vital for designing next-generation vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies that provide broad protection without increasing the risk of severe disease (Cell, 2015).

Other names

Dengue virus antigensDENV T-cell epitopesDENV B-cell epitopesDengue polyprotein fragmentsDengue virus polyprotein

Induction of neutralizing antibodies and cellular immune responses to prevent viral entry and clear infected cells.