Rabies virus glycoprotein (G protein) (RABV-G)

The rabies virus glycoprotein (G protein) is the primary surface antigen of the rabies virus, playing a critical role in viral attachment to host receptors and facilitating membrane fusion (UniProt: P03524). In vaccine technology, displaying these G protein antigens on virus-like particles (VLPs) creates a highly immunogenic platform that mimics the physical structure of the virus without the risk of infection (PubMed: 21963603). This multivalent display effectively cross-links B-cell receptors and enhances the recruitment of antigen-presenting cells, leading to the production of high-titer neutralizing antibodies (NCBI: PMC4113757). These antibodies prevent the virus from entering the central nervous system, thereby providing prophylaxis against the fatal rabies disease. VLP-based approaches, such as the recombinant vaccine Thrabis, represent a modern strategy to improve the potency and safety profile of rabies immunization compared to traditional inactivated vaccines (Cadila Pharmaceuticals). The G protein is the only protein that induces neutralizing antibodies, making it the central target for both active and passive immunization strategies. By utilizing VLPs, the immune system is presented with a dense array of antigens that triggers a more robust and durable response than soluble protein subunits.

Other names

Rabies virus G proteinRabies virus surface glycoproteinRABV-G proteinRabies virus glycoprotein G

Induction of rabies virus neutralizing antibodies (RVNA) and activation of T-cell mediated immunity through the presentation of viral antigens in a multivalent, virus-like structure that mimics the native virus (PubMed: 21963603).