Enterovirus 71 virus particle (EV71 particle)

The **Enterovirus 71 virus particle** (EV71 particle) is the mature virion of Enterovirus 71, a non-enveloped, icosahedral virus in the family Picornaviridae, genus Enterovirus, species Enterovirus A[1][2][3]. The virus particle comprises 60 protomers, each containing four structural proteins (VP1, VP2, VP3, and VP4)[1][2][3]. The icosahedral capsid shell encloses a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome of about 7,500 nucleotides[2]. VP1, VP2, and VP3 are exposed on the capsid surface, while VP4 is located internally. The mature, infectious particle mediates host cell entry, primarily by binding to specific cellular receptors (such as SCARB2, PSGL-1, annexin II, heparan sulfate, and others)[3]. Upon receptor binding, the virion undergoes structural rearrangements necessary for viral uncoating and release of the genome into the host cell. EV71 is a major etiological agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease and can cause severe neurological complications in young children[2]. Because the virus particle itself is not a classical cellular target (such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter), but rather the whole infectious virion, it is generally not considered a direct therapeutic target. Note: This entry is considered "incorrect" as a therapeutic target for structured drug discovery—therapeutic interventions usually target viral enzymes, host factors, or specific entry/fusion steps, not the virus particle as a molecular entity itself.

Other names

Enterovirus 71 virionHuman enterovirus 71 (HEV71) particleEV-A71 particle