Rotavirus outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 (G4 serotype) (VP7 G4)

Rotavirus VP7 is a 37-kDa glycoprotein that forms the outer layer of the rotavirus capsid and is the primary determinant of the virus's G-serotype (UniProt: P04502). The G4 serotype is one of the most prevalent strains causing severe diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide (PubMed: 15103154). VP7 is essential for the structural integrity of the virion and facilitates the calcium-dependent attachment and penetration of the virus into host intestinal cells (PubMed: 11831707). Because it is a major target for neutralizing antibodies, the VP7 G4 antigen is a critical component of live-attenuated vaccines like RotaTeq (FDA: RotaTeq Label). Vaccination induces a protective immune response that significantly reduces the incidence of severe rotavirus-associated gastroenteritis and related hospitalizations (CDC: Rotavirus Vaccination).

Other names

Outer capsid glycoprotein VP7G4 serotype antigenVP7 glycoproteinG-proteinRotavirus G4 antigen

Vaccines containing the VP7 G4 antigen induce the production of serotype-specific and cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies that block viral entry into host enterocytes (PubMed: 15103154).