Herpes simplex virus type 2 glycoprotein C (gC2) (gC2)

Herpes simplex virus type 2 glycoprotein C (gC2) is a multifunctional envelope protein essential for the pathogenesis and immune evasion of HSV-2. It facilitates the initial attachment of the virus to host cells by binding to cell-surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans, a critical step for viral entry. Beyond its role in attachment, gC2 acts as a potent inhibitor of the host's innate immune system by binding to the complement component C3b. This interaction prevents the activation of the complement cascade, thereby protecting the virus from complement-mediated neutralization and the lysis of infected cells. Because of its role in shielding the virus from immune detection, gC2 is a primary target in the development of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. Current vaccine strategies often utilize gC2 in combination with other glycoproteins, such as gD2 and gE2, to simultaneously block viral entry and neutralize immune evasion mechanisms. Targeting gC2 aims to reduce the severity of genital herpes, prevent neonatal transmission, and lower the risk of HIV acquisition associated with HSV-2 infection.

Other names

Envelope glycoprotein CgC-2UL44Glycoprotein FgF-2

Induction of antibodies that neutralize the virus and block the interaction between gC2 and host complement component C3b, thereby preventing viral immune evasion and restoring complement-mediated viral clearance.