Sudan virus envelope glycoprotein (SUDV GP) (SUDV GP)

The Sudan virus surface glycoprotein (SUDV GP) is a critical type I transmembrane protein that forms trimeric spikes on the viral envelope, serving as the sole mediator of host cell entry [UniProt: P31769]. It is expressed as a precursor that is proteolytically cleaved by furin into GP1 and GP2 subunits, which remain linked by a disulfide bond. GP1 facilitates initial attachment to host cells and subsequent binding to the intracellular receptor Niemann-Pick C1 (NPC1) within the endosome, while GP2 mediates the fusion of viral and host membranes [PubMed: 30545901]. Because of its essential role in the viral life cycle and its exposure on the virion surface, SUDV GP is the primary target for the development of vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies [NIH: Sudan Virus Disease]. Current therapeutic candidates, such as gidimatenimab, aim to neutralize the virus by blocking these entry mechanisms. However, the protein's complex glycan shield and the production of a secreted soluble form (sGP) present significant challenges for immune recognition and drug efficacy [PubMed: 27535045].

Other names

Sudan ebolavirus glycoproteinSUDV GP1,2Sudan virus surface glycoproteinGP

Neutralization of viral entry by blocking attachment to host receptors or inhibiting pH-dependent membrane fusion within the endosome [PubMed: 30545901].