Respiratory syncytial virus antigens

The term "Respiratory syncytial virus antigens" refers chiefly to the **fusion (F) glycoprotein** and the **attachment (G) glycoprotein** on the surface of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an enveloped, negative-sense RNA virus from the Pneumoviridae family[1][2][8]. The F protein mediates fusion of the viral envelope with host cell membranes, while the G protein mediates viral attachment to target airway epithelial cells[1][7][9]. Both proteins are the primary targets for neutralizing antibodies generated in natural infection, and central targets for passive immunoprophylaxis and vaccine development. Other RSV antigens include structural and non-structural proteins, but F and G are most relevant as therapeutic and vaccine targets. The G protein additionally modulates host immune responses through interaction with chemokine receptors[7]. Drugs such as palivizumab and nirsevimab target the RSV F protein with neutralizing activity[3][7]. **Note:** For structured drug/vaccine target information, use specific glycoprotein names ("Respiratory syncytial virus fusion glycoprotein (RSV F)" or "Respiratory syncytial virus attachment glycoprotein (RSV G)") in place of the generic plural "antigens"[1][3][6].

Other names

Respiratory syncytial virus F proteinRSV FRespiratory syncytial virus G proteinRSV GRSV fusion proteinRSV attachment proteinHuman respiratory syncytial virus antigensRSV antigens

Neutralizing antibodies bind F or G, preventing cell entry or fusion, blocking infection. This includes fusion inhibition (for F-targeting drugs/antibodies) and attachment inhibition or immune modulation (for G-targeting drugs/antibodies).