Herpes simplex virus type 1 envelope glycoproteins (HSV-1 envelope)

The Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) envelope is a lipid bilayer derived from the host cell, containing at least 12 viral glycoproteins that are essential for viral entry and cell-to-cell spread (PMID: 23536660). Key glycoproteins such as gB, gC, gD, gH, and gL work in a coordinated fashion to facilitate attachment to host cells and the subsequent fusion of the viral and cellular membranes. For instance, gD binds to specific host receptors like Nectin-1 or Herpesvirus Entry Mediator (HVEM), which triggers the fusion machinery (PMID: 10559311). Because these components are the first point of contact with the host immune system, they are critical targets for neutralizing antibodies and vaccine development. Drugs like docosanol are thought to inhibit the fusion process by modifying the host cell membrane, while experimental monoclonal antibodies like UB-621 specifically target gD to block viral entry (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04714060). This target complex is also the focus of various microbicides and topical treatments aimed at reducing viral transmission and lesion healing time.

Other names

HSV-1 virion componentsHSV-1 surface proteinsHerpes simplex virus 1 envelopeHSV-1 glycoproteinsHSV-1 entry machinery

Inhibition of viral-host cell membrane fusion and blocking of viral attachment to host receptors.