JC polyomavirus antigens (JCPyV antigens)

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) antigens are the primary proteins encoded by the JCPyV genome, including the early regulatory proteins (Large and Small T-antigens) and late structural proteins (VP1, VP2, and VP3) (UniProt P03072; NCBI Taxon 10632). These antigens are central to the virus's ability to replicate within glial cells and are the primary targets for the host immune system. In immunocompromised individuals, JCPyV reactivates and causes Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a severe demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (StatPearls, "Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy"). The Large T-antigen is a multifunctional phosphoprotein essential for viral DNA replication and host cell transformation, while VP1 is the major capsid protein responsible for binding to host cell receptors like the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor (Journal of Virology, 2006). Therapeutic approaches targeting these antigens include the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab to reinvigorate exhausted T-cells (Cortese et al., NEJM 2019) and the development of monoclonal antibodies or vaccines aimed at neutralizing VP1 to prevent viral entry and spread.

Other names

JCV antigensJohn Cunningham virus antigensPolyomavirus JC antigensJCPyV proteins

Enhancement of T-cell mediated cytotoxicity against viral antigens via PD-1 inhibition; neutralization of viral entry by targeting VP1; inhibition of viral DNA polymerase.