Human cytomegalovirus surface antigens (HCMV surface antigens)

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) surface antigens are a collection of envelope glycoproteins that facilitate viral attachment and entry into host cells [1]. Key antigens include glycoprotein B (gB), which acts as the primary fusion protein, and the gH/gL complex, which is essential for entry into all cell types [1][2]. Additionally, the pentameric complex (gH/gL/UL128/UL130/UL131A) is required specifically for infection of epithelial, endothelial, and myeloid cells [2]. These antigens are critical targets for the host immune system and are the primary focus for therapeutic interventions, including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies [5]. HCMV infection is a significant cause of morbidity in immunocompromised patients and is the leading infectious cause of congenital disabilities [1]. Drugs like Cytomegalovirus Immune Globulin (CytoGam) utilize polyclonal antibodies against these antigens to provide passive immunity [3]. Experimental therapies, such as the mRNA-1647 vaccine, aim to elicit broad neutralizing antibody responses against both gB and the pentameric complex [4]. However, the high genetic diversity of HCMV and its ability to spread cell-to-cell present significant challenges for these therapies [5].

Other names

HCMV envelope glycoproteinsCMV surface proteinsHCMV entry complexGlycoprotein B (gB)Glycoprotein H/L (gH/gL) complexHCMV Pentameric complex

Neutralization of viral entry by blocking attachment to host cells and inhibiting membrane fusion between the viral envelope and host cell membranes [1][5].