Spike Glycoprotein Receptor-Binding Domain of SARS-CoV-2 (RBD)

The spike glycoprotein receptor-binding domain (RBD) is a critical region within the spike (S) protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The S protein is located on the viral surface and mediates entry into host cells. The RBD specifically enables the virus to bind to its primary human cellular receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), facilitating viral attachment and subsequent membrane fusion for cell entry. It serves as a major antigenic site, eliciting strong immune responses, and is a key target for vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. The RBD undergoes frequent mutations that can alter its affinity for ACE2 or help evade immune detection, leading to the emergence of variants with altered transmissibility and immune evasion capabilities.

Other names

SARS-CoV-2 RBDSpike RBDReceptor-Binding DomainS1 Receptor-Binding Domain

Neutralizing antibodies bind to the RBD, blocking its interaction with ACE2, preventing viral entry into host cells.