Japanese encephalitis virus envelope protein E (E protein)

Japanese encephalitis virus envelope protein E is a surface glycoprotein essential for viral infectivity. It is responsible for the initial binding of the virus to host cell receptors, membrane fusion during cell entry, and is the principal target of protective neutralizing antibodies. The E protein consists of three domains (DI, DII, DIII) and forms head-to-tail homodimers on mature virions. Domain III contains critical epitopes recognized by neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, making it a key target for vaccine development and therapeutic antibodies. Structural features of E protein influence viral stability, neurovirulence, and serocomplex-specific pathogenesis. These properties make the E protein a central focus in the prevention and treatment of Japanese encephalitis.

Other names

Japanese encephalitis virus E proteinEnvelope glycoprotein EJEV E protein

Inhibition of viral entry and fusion (neutralizing antibodies bind E protein, prevent receptor binding and membrane fusion) Induction of protective immunity (vaccines generate anti-E antibodies)