Varicella-zoster virus surface glycoproteins (VZV glycoproteins)

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) surface glycoproteins are essential structural components of the viral envelope that mediate the infection process (StatPearls, 2023). The most prominent among these is glycoprotein E (gE), which is the most abundantly expressed and plays a vital role in viral replication and cell-to-cell transmission (UniProt P09333). Other key glycoproteins include gB, gH, and gL, which form complexes necessary for membrane fusion and entry into host cells (PubMed, PMID: 25100805). These surface antigens are the primary targets for the host's adaptive immune system, making them the focus of vaccine development and passive immunotherapy (CDC, 2021). For instance, the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) specifically utilizes a truncated version of gE to elicit a robust immune response against shingles (FDA, 2017). Understanding these antigens is crucial for managing VZV-related conditions such as chickenpox and herpes zoster, as well as preventing complications like postherpetic neuralgia (StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

Varicella-zoster virus surface antigensVZV surface proteinsVZV envelope glycoproteinsHuman herpesvirus 3 surface antigens

Induction of active immunity through the production of neutralizing antibodies and activation of T-cell mediated responses (CDC, 2021); passive immunization via administration of exogenous VZV-specific antibodies to neutralize viral particles (FDA, 2012).