Rotavirus outer-layer protein VP7 and spike protein VP4 (VP7 and VP4 (rotavirus))

Rotavirus is a major cause of severe diarrhea in infants and young children. Its virion consists of a triple-layered icosahedral capsid; the outermost layer is formed by VP7, a calcium-stabilized glycoprotein arranged in trimers, and VP4, an unglycosylated spike protein that projects out from the VP7 layer[6][1][3]. VP4 mediates viral attachment to host cells and entry by mediating endosomal membrane penetration, while VP7 is involved in assembly, virion stability, and is a principal target of protective antibodies[1][2][3][6][7]. Both proteins elicit neutralizing antibody responses and are thus integral vaccine antigens and therapeutic targets[5][7][8]. The genetic and antigenic properties of VP7 and VP4 are used to define rotavirus G and P serotypes, essential for epidemiological tracking and vaccine design[4][8]. Diverse genotypes of VP7 and VP4 contribute to immune escape and continued disease burden, highlighting their centrality in rotavirus pathobiology and prevention strategies[5][8][9].

Other names

VP7 glycoproteinVP4 spike proteinRotavirus neutralization proteinsG serotype protein (VP7)P serotype protein (VP4)

Neutralizing antibodies block cell attachment and entry (VP4 & VP7) Inhibition of conformational transitions required for viral penetration (VP4) Preventing uncoating and release of viral genome (VP7)