Respiratory syncytial virus pre-fusion F protein (RSV pre-F protein, RSV F (pre-fusion conformation))

The **respiratory syncytial virus pre-fusion F protein** is a class I viral fusion glycoprotein that is essential for viral entry. It exists in a metastable pre-fusion trimeric state on the virion surface, mediating fusion between viral and host cell membranes during infection. The transition from pre-fusion to post-fusion state is required for viral entry and spread. The pre-fusion F protein contains multiple antigenic sites, including highly potent neutralizing epitopes (such as site Ø and V) that are specific to the pre-fusion conformation and are the major targets for protective antibody responses. Stabilizing this conformation in vaccines or as a monoclonal antibody target has greatly improved prophylactic approaches against RSV infection. The F protein (especially in its pre-fusion state) is the primary antigen for currently licensed RSV prophylactic antibodies and human vaccine candidates[5][3][1][6][2][8].

Other names

RSV F protein (pre-fusion)Pre-fusion F glycoprotein of RSVRSV F glycoprotein (pre-F)RSV F (DS-Cav1) (for the stabilized pre-fusion variant)[8]Fusion (F) protein, Respiratory syncytial virus (prefusion)Paramyxovirus F protein (prefusion, RSV subtype)

Monoclonal antibodies: Bind to key pre-fusion-specific neutralizing epitopes, block conformational change required for membrane fusion, inhibit viral entry[5][3][7] Vaccines: Induce neutralizing antibodies against the pre-fusion F conformation for protective immunity