Rotavirus A Outer Capsid Glycoprotein VP7 (VP7)

Rotavirus A VP7 is a 37-kDa glycoprotein that constitutes the major component of the outer capsid of the rotavirus triple-layered particle (TLP) [UniProt: P04502]. It plays a critical role in the early stages of infection by facilitating viral attachment and entry into host enterocytes in the small intestine [PubMed: 22837214]. VP7 is one of the two primary antigens responsible for inducing neutralizing antibodies, and its variability defines the G-serotype (glycoprotein-type) of the virus [NCBI: BK006122]. Because of its surface exposure and role in infectivity, VP7 is a central target for current live-attenuated vaccines, such as Rotarix and RotaTeq, which aim to provide heterotypic immunity against various rotavirus strains [PubMed: 29198919]. These vaccines work by presenting the VP7 antigen to the immune system to elicit protective B-cell and T-cell responses. Therapeutic strategies focusing on VP7 include the development of recombinant vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to prevent severe dehydrating diarrhea in infants and young children [PubMed: 31110075]. Structural studies of VP7 have revealed specific epitopes that are targeted by neutralizing antibodies, aiding in the design of next-generation vaccines. Monitoring the genetic evolution of VP7 is essential for tracking vaccine-escape mutants and ensuring long-term vaccine efficacy.

Other names

G proteinGlycoprotein VP7Major outer capsid proteinVP7 antigen

Induction of neutralizing antibodies that target the VP7 protein to prevent viral attachment and entry into host cells.