Rotavirus A outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 (VP7) (VP7)

Rotavirus A outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 (VP7) is a 37-kDa glycoprotein that forms the smooth outer surface of the rotavirus triple-layered particle (TLP). It is the primary determinant of the G-serotype (glycoprotein) classification and plays a vital role in the late stages of viral morphogenesis and host cell entry (UniProt: P04502). VP7 facilitates the attachment of the virus to host cell receptors and is essential for the calcium-dependent stability of the outer capsid; its loss triggers the uncoating process required for viral replication (PMID: 22438551). As a major surface antigen, VP7 is the principal target for neutralizing antibodies, making it a cornerstone of vaccine development strategies, including live-attenuated vaccines like Rotarix and RotaTeq (CDC, 2023). Therapeutic research also explores VP7 as a target for monoclonal antibodies and entry inhibitors to treat severe gastroenteritis in immunocompromised patients.

Other names

Outer capsid glycoprotein VP7G proteinVP7 proteinGlycoprotein VP7

Induction of neutralizing antibodies that block viral attachment and entry into host enterocytes (PMID: 16148316).