Enterovirus A71 capsid protein (EV-A71 capsid) (EV-A71 capsid)

The Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) capsid protein is the structural shell of the virus, composed of sixty units each of the proteins VP1, VP2, VP3, and VP4. It is essential for the viral life cycle, mediating attachment to host cell receptors such as Scavenger Receptor Class B Member 2 (SCARB2) and P-selectin Glycoprotein Ligand-1 (PSGL-1) [PMID: 33859191]. The capsid is the primary target for neutralizing antibodies, which are the main correlates of protection induced by infection or vaccination [PMID: 24572090]. Research has identified specific epitopes on the capsid surface, particularly within the VP1 and VP2 proteins, that are cross-recognized by antibodies across different enterovirus strains [PMID: 33859191]. These cross-reactive epitopes are significant for the development of broad-spectrum vaccines against Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) and associated neurological conditions. Inactivated EV-A71 vaccines currently in use function by eliciting antibodies that bind to these capsid proteins to block viral entry [PMID: 26743420]. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies are also designed to target these epitopes to neutralize the virus and prevent severe disease [PMID: 22437618]. Understanding the structural variability of the capsid is crucial for addressing challenges like antigenic drift and ensuring long-term vaccine efficacy.

Other names

EV71 capsidVP1 proteinVP2 proteinVP3 proteinVP4 proteinEnterovirus 71 structural proteinsEnterovirus A71 polyprotein (capsid region)

Vaccines and therapeutic antibodies target specific epitopes on the capsid surface, such as the VP1 GH loop, to sterically block the interaction with host receptors (e.g., SCARB2) or to stabilize the capsid and prevent the uncoating of viral RNA [PMID: 33859191, PMID: 22437618].