Rotavirus outer capsid proteins VP7 and VP4 (VP7 and VP4)

RotaTeq rotavirus antigens are the primary immunogenic components of the RotaTeq vaccine, a pentavalent live-attenuated oral vaccine designed to prevent rotavirus gastroenteritis (WHO, 2021). These antigens consist of the outer capsid proteins VP7 (a glycoprotein) and VP4 (a protease-sensitive spike protein) derived from five human-bovine reassortant rotavirus strains (NIH, 2012). Specifically, the vaccine targets the human G1, G2, G3, and G4 serotypes via VP7 and the P[8] genotype via VP4, which represent the most prevalent causes of rotavirus disease globally (FDA, 2020). VP4 facilitates viral attachment to host cells, while VP7 mediates cell entry; both are critical for viral infectivity and serve as the main targets for neutralizing antibodies (StatPearls, 2023). Upon administration, these antigens replicate in the small intestine and induce a robust immune response, including the production of serum anti-rotavirus IgA and neutralizing antibodies that provide protection against severe dehydrating diarrhea (CDC, 2023). While highly effective, the use of these antigens in a live vaccine carries a small risk of intussusception and is contraindicated in infants with severe combined immunodeficiency (Drugs.com, 2024).

Other names

RotaTeq antigensRotavirus surface antigensG-protein (VP7)P-protein (VP4)VP7 glycoproteinVP4 spike proteinOuter capsid proteins

Induction of active immunity through the production of neutralizing antibodies and serum IgA against specific rotavirus VP7 and VP4 serotypes to prevent viral attachment and entry into host cells.