Monkeypox virus surface antigens (MPXV surface antigens)

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) surface antigens are a group of proteins located on the outer membranes of the virus's two infectious forms: the intracellular mature virion (MV) and the extracellular enveloped virion (EV). Key antigens include A29L, H3L, and M1R on the MV surface, which facilitate viral attachment and entry into host cells by binding to host glycosaminoglycans, and A35R and B6R on the EV surface, which are critical for viral egress and cell-to-cell dissemination (1.2.1, 1.3.1). These proteins are the primary targets for the host's neutralizing antibody response and are the focus of modern vaccine development, including mRNA and subunit vaccines (1.2.2, 1.2.4). Therapeutic strategies targeting these antigens include monoclonal antibodies and vaccines like JYNNEOS and ACAM2000, which aim to prevent infection or reduce disease severity by blocking viral replication and spread (1.1.3, 1.2.5). Additionally, some antiviral drugs like Tecovirimat target specific envelope proteins such as VP37 to inhibit the formation of the enveloped virus form (1.1.1). Understanding the structural and functional roles of these antigens is essential for addressing the global health threat posed by Mpox outbreaks (1.3.5, 1.5.1).

Other names

Mpox virus surface antigensMPXV envelope proteinsMonkeypox viral antigensA29LM1RH3LA35RB6RE8LA33RL1RD8L

Neutralization of viral particles, inhibition of viral entry and fusion with host cells, and blocking of viral egress and cell-to-cell spread.