Epstein-Barr Virus Envelope Glycoprotein gL (gL)

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) envelope glycoprotein gL is a conserved herpesvirus protein that forms a heterodimeric complex with glycoprotein H (gH). This gH/gL complex is essential for the fusion of the viral envelope with host cell membranes, enabling EBV entry into target cells such as B cells and epithelial cells. The gH/gL complex has a four-domain structure, with one end regulating activation of gB and the other participating directly in membrane fusion. It is required for efficient membrane fusion, directly binds to cellular receptors on epithelial cells, and interacts with other viral proteins such as gp42 during B cell infection. Because of its role in viral entry and the ability of neutralizing antibodies to target it, gL is an attractive target for antiviral drug and vaccine development.

Targeted by neutralizing antibodies to prevent viral entry.