Histo-blood group antigens and cell surface glycans (HBGAs)

Host intestinal epithelial cell surface glycans, including histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) and sialic acids, are critical determinants of rotavirus (RV) host range and tissue tropism. These glycans are recognized by the VP8* subunit of the viral spike protein VP4, facilitating the initial attachment of the virus to the host cell (Hu et al., 2012, Nature). The expression of specific HBGAs, such as ABO, Lewis, and Secretor antigens, is genetically determined by enzymes like fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2), which dictates an individual's susceptibility to various RV genotypes (Ramani et al., 2016, Current Opinion in Virology). For instance, 'secretor' individuals expressing H-type 1 antigens are more susceptible to the globally dominant P[8] and P[4] RV strains (Nordgren et al., 2014, Journal of Virology). Therapeutic interventions often focus on glycan mimetics, such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) like 2'-fucosyllactose, which act as decoy receptors to prevent viral binding (Laucirica et al., 2017, Journal of Virology). Additionally, sialic acids serve as receptors for certain animal and human RV strains, further diversifying the glycan-virus interaction landscape (Ruiz et al., 2009, Journal of Biological Chemistry).

Other names

ABO blood group antigensLewis antigensSecretor antigensSialic acidsRotavirus entry factorsFUT2-dependent glycansEnterocyte surface glycans

Competitive inhibition of the rotavirus VP8* domain binding to host cell surface glycans, acting as decoy receptors to prevent viral attachment and entry into enterocytes.