Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.351) (S protein (B.1.351))

The spike glycoprotein (S protein) of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.351 (Beta) variant is a trimeric class I fusion protein that mediates viral entry into host cells by binding to the ACE2 receptor. It contains mutations L18F, D80A, D215G, deletion 242–244, K417N, E484K, N501Y, D614G, and A701V, which enhance ACE2 binding and confer resistance to neutralizing antibodies, leading to reduced efficacy of some therapies and vaccines.

Other names

Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV‑2 Beta variantSpike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 501Y.V2B.1.351 Spike proteinBeta variant Spike protein501Y.V2 Spike protein

Binding to ACE2 receptor on host cells, mediating viral entry. Neutralizing antibodies block ACE2 binding or prevent conformational changes required for fusion.