PreS1 domain of hepatitis B virus large envelope protein (PreS1 domain)

The preS1 domain is a N-terminal extension of the large HBV surface protein (LHBs), comprising about 108 amino acids (variant depending on genotype). It is myristoylated at its N-terminus, which anchors the domain to the viral envelope. The domain mediates attachment to the hepatocyte-specific receptor, sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP), allowing HBV to enter liver cells. It also contains a fusion peptide motif critical for merging the viral envelope with host membranes during infection[2][3][5]. This domain is involved in interactions with the viral capsid for particle assembly, and its structural flexibility (intrinsic disorder) equips it to mediate various functions. Targeting preS1, with drugs or antibodies, is a validated approach to block HBV and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) entry, representing a promising antiviral strategy.[4][5]

Other names

Pre-S1preS1 regionpreS1 peptidepreS1 determinant

Blockade of NTCP binding, preventing viral entry; Inhibition of membrane fusion processes; Neutralization via anti-preS1 antibodies