Spike Glycoprotein of SARS-like Coronavirus (CoV_S1)

The spike (S) glycoprotein is a large, trimeric transmembrane protein found on the surface of SARS-like coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. It is the most prominent structural protein and mediates viral entry into host cells by binding to specific cell surface receptors and facilitating membrane fusion. The S glycoprotein assembles as a homotrimer protruding from the viral envelope. Each monomer consists of two main functional subunits: S1 (containing the NTD and RBD, responsible for receptor binding) and S2 (containing elements required for membrane fusion). A furin cleavage site between S1 and S2 allows host proteases to activate the protein. The S glycoprotein is highly immunogenic and a major target of neutralizing antibodies and vaccines. Mutations in the spike protein can affect infectivity, antibody recognition, and vaccine efficacy.

Other names

SARS-CoV Spike proteinSARS-CoV-2 Spike proteinS glycoproteinSpike protein

Blockage of receptor binding, inhibition of membrane fusion