SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein (Ancestral Strain) (S protein)

The SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (ancestral strain) is a trimeric, class I fusion protein on the surface of the virus. It mediates viral entry into host cells by binding to ACE2 via its receptor-binding domain (RBD). It is the primary target for neutralizing antibodies and first-generation COVID-19 vaccines. The spike protein undergoes proteolytic cleavage at S1/S2 and S2' sites, facilitating membrane fusion. It is heavily glycosylated, which shields it from immune detection. Mutations in the spike protein can affect infectivity, antibody recognition, and vaccine efficacy.

Other names

Spike proteinSARS-CoV-2 S proteinWuhan-Hu-1 Spike protein

Neutralizing antibodies block receptor binding or interfere with membrane fusion. Vaccines elicit an antibody response that targets the spike protein, preventing viral entry.