Meleagrid alphaherpesvirus 1 entry receptors (HVT receptors)

The host cell entry receptors for the Meleagrid alphaherpesvirus 1 (Herpesvirus of Turkeys, HVT) viral vector are the cellular proteins that facilitate the attachment and internalization of the virus into avian host cells. HVT is a non-pathogenic alphaherpesvirus widely utilized as a recombinant viral vector in poultry vaccines to protect against diseases such as Marek's disease, Newcastle disease, and Avian Influenza (Afonso et al., 2001, Journal of Virology). The entry process involves a multi-step cascade starting with the binding of viral glycoproteins, such as gC or gB, to cell-surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans for initial attachment. This is followed by the specific interaction of viral glycoprotein D (gD) with host receptors, primarily Nectin-1 (Poliovirus receptor-related 1) and potentially the Herpesvirus Entry Mediator (HVEM), which triggers membrane fusion mediated by the gB and gH/gL complex (Geraghty et al., 1998, Science; Spear, 2004, Cellular Microbiology). These receptors are predominantly expressed on lymphoid and epithelial cells, determining the vector's tissue tropism and its ability to establish a persistent, non-pathogenic infection that confers long-term immunity (Bublot & Sharma, 2004, Revue Scientifique et Technique). In biotechnology, these receptors are targeted to optimize the delivery of foreign antigens and to ensure the safety and efficacy of recombinant HVT-based vaccines.

Other names

Herpesvirus of turkeys receptorsHVT entry mediatorsAvian Nectin-1Avian HVEMTurkey herpesvirus entry receptors

Viral envelope fusion with the host cell membrane mediated by the sequential binding of viral glycoproteins to heparan sulfate proteoglycans and specific protein receptors like Nectin-1 and HVEM.