Norovirus Genogroup I genotype 1 Norwalk virus capsid protein VP1 (VP1)

Norovirus GI.1 Norwalk VP1 is the major structural protein of the Norwalk virus, which serves as the prototype strain for human noroviruses within Genogroup I. This protein self-assembles into an icosahedral capsid containing 180 copies of VP1, organized into shell (S) and protruding (P) domains that protect the viral RNA genome [2, 14]. The P domain is particularly significant as it facilitates viral entry by binding to Histo-Blood Group Antigens (HBGAs) on the host's gastroduodenal epithelial cells, serving as the primary site for host-cell attachment [2, 11]. As the dominant surface-exposed antigen, VP1 is the central target for vaccine development, including virus-like particle (VLP) and viral-vectored candidates [12, 20]. Therapeutic strategies focus on inducing high titers of neutralizing antibodies, particularly those that block the interaction between VP1 and HBGAs to prevent infection and the subsequent onset of acute gastroenteritis [15, 21].

Other names

Major capsid proteinCoat proteinVP1p59ORF2 proteinNorwalk virus capsid protein

Induction of neutralizing antibodies; stimulation of mucosal IgA and memory B cell responses; blockade of viral attachment to Histo-Blood Group Antigens (HBGAs).