Outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 (Rotavirus A serotype G2) (VP7 (G2))

Outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 (Rotavirus A serotype G2) is a 37 kDa structural protein that forms the smooth outer shell of the rotavirus virion (UniProt P04328). It is a calcium-binding protein that exists as a trimer and is the primary determinant of the G-serotype classification, serving as a major target for neutralizing antibodies (ICTV). During the viral life cycle, VP7 plays a critical role in the late stages of cell entry; the low calcium concentration within the host cell endosome triggers the dissociation of the VP7 shell, allowing the double-layered particle to be released into the cytoplasm for replication (Expasy). Serotype G2 is one of the most prevalent strains causing severe acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children globally (NIH). Because of its high clinical relevance, G2 VP7 is a key antigenic component in multivalent live-attenuated vaccines such as RotaTeq and Rotasiil, which aim to provide serotype-specific immunity (CDC). These vaccines work by inducing a humoral immune response, specifically producing IgA and IgG antibodies that neutralize the virus before it can infect intestinal enterocytes (PubMed). While these vaccines have significantly reduced rotavirus-related hospitalizations, they are associated with a small but significant risk of intussusception, a rare form of bowel obstruction (WHO). Monitoring for G2-specific immunity and viral genotypes remains essential for evaluating vaccine efficacy and tracking the emergence of escape mutants (PubMed).

Other names

G-proteinG-type neutralization antigenOuter capsid protein VP7Glycoprotein VP7VP7 protein, Rotavirus

Induction of neutralizing antibodies (active immunization) that target the VP7 protein to prevent viral entry and uncoating in host enterocytes.