Human B-cell receptor specific for Respiratory Syncytial Virus prefusion F epitopes (RSV pre-F BCR)

The Human B-cell receptor (BCR) specific for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) prefusion F epitopes is a membrane-bound immunoglobulin complex on B lymphocytes that recognizes the metastable prefusion conformation of the RSV fusion (F) protein (UniProt P03420). This conformation contains the most potent neutralizing epitopes, such as Site Ø and Site V, making it the primary focus of modern vaccine development (McLellan et al., 2013, Science). When these BCRs encounter the prefusion F antigen, they initiate signaling pathways that lead to B-cell activation, clonal expansion, and the secretion of high-affinity antibodies (Graham, 2017, Curr Opin Immunol). These antibodies are essential for preventing RSV infection by blocking the fusion of the viral envelope with host cell membranes. Vaccines like Arexvy and Abrysvo are specifically designed to target these BCRs by presenting stabilized prefusion F proteins to the immune system (Papi et al., 2023, NEJM; Kampmann et al., 2023, NEJM). Additionally, monoclonal antibodies such as nirsevimab provide passive protection by mimicking the binding profile of these naturally occurring B-cell receptors (Hammitt et al., 2022, NEJM).

Other names

RSV-specific B-cell receptorAnti-RSV prefusion F B-cell receptorRSV F-specific BCRPrefusion F-specific B-cell receptor

Vaccine-mediated activation of specific B-cell receptors leads to the expansion of B-cell clones and the production of high-affinity neutralizing antibodies targeting the RSV prefusion F protein.