Host hepatocyte surface attachment factors

Host hepatocyte surface attachment factors represent a heterogeneous group of molecules on the liver cell membrane that pathogens utilize for docking and entry. These factors include proteins like the sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP), scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI), and CD81, as well as heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) (Yan et al., 2012, eLife; Zeisel et al., 2013, Journal of Hepatology). Their primary physiological functions often involve the transport of bile acids, lipids, or signaling molecules, which are hijacked by viruses such as HBV, HCV, and HDV, or parasites like Plasmodium (Silvie et al., 2003, Nature Medicine). In the context of Hepatitis B and D, NTCP is the definitive receptor, and its inhibition prevents the virus from infecting new hepatocytes. For Hepatitis C, a multi-step entry process involves initial attachment to HSPGs followed by interaction with SR-BI, CD81, and tight junction proteins (Barth et al., 2003, JBC). Therapeutic agents targeting these factors, such as the entry inhibitor bulevirtide, provide a mechanism to interrupt the viral life cycle at the earliest stage. However, because these factors perform essential host functions, drug development must balance antiviral efficacy with the risk of metabolic disruption, such as altered bile acid homeostasis. Monitoring biomarkers like serum bile acids or viral load is crucial for assessing the safety and efficacy of such interventions.

Other names

Hepatocyte entry receptorsLiver cell attachment factorsViral entry factorsHepatocyte surface receptors

Inhibition of pathogen attachment and entry into host hepatocytes by blocking specific surface receptors or attachment factors.