Host cell surface receptors for adenoviral entry

Host cell surface receptors for adenoviral entry are a diverse group of membrane proteins and glycans that facilitate the attachment and internalization of adenoviruses (AdV) into host cells (Wikipedia, 2024; PMC, 2020). The entry process typically involves a two-step mechanism: initial high-affinity attachment of the viral fiber knob to a primary receptor, followed by a secondary interaction between the viral penton base and co-receptors that trigger endocytosis (Cell, 1993; PMC, 2022). Key primary receptors include the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR) for many serotypes, CD46 (membrane cofactor protein) for species B and D, and desmoglein-2 (DSG2) for certain species B viruses (PubMed, 2020; mBio, 2025). Internalization is primarily mediated by alpha-v integrins (such as alpha-v-beta-3 and alpha-v-beta-5), which recognize the RGD motif on the viral capsid and stimulate clathrin-mediated endocytosis (PMC, 2024; PubMed, 1993). These receptors are critical targets in both antiviral drug development, where inhibitors like suramin or decoy receptors aim to block viral entry, and in gene therapy or oncolytic virotherapy, where vectors are engineered to target or avoid specific receptors to optimize tissue tropism and safety (MDPI, 2019; PMC, 2024).

Other names

Adenovirus receptorsAdV receptorsViral entry receptorsCoxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR)CD46 (Membrane cofactor protein)Desmoglein-2 (DSG2)Integrin alpha-v-beta-3Integrin alpha-v-beta-5Sialic acid receptors

Inhibition of viral attachment to primary receptors (CAR, CD46, DSG2) and blocking of co-receptor-mediated internalization (integrins) to prevent viral entry and subsequent replication.