Viral protein 2 (VP2) (VP2)

The **VP2 protein** is a viral structural protein that forms part of the capsid in multiple virus families. In polyomaviruses, VP2 is a minor capsid protein located inside the viral shell and is essential for proper genome packaging and entry into host cells[1][5]. In IBDV, VP2 forms trimers that are key building blocks of the capsid, providing important immunogenic epitopes for neutralizing antibodies[2][4]. In BTV, VP2 is the principal determinant of serotype specificity and mediates attachment and penetration during infection, making it a major vaccine target[3]. In DWV, VP2 interacts with host proteins (e.g., snapin), potentially influencing viral assembly and neuropathogenesis[7]. Across viruses, VP2's surface loops display sequence variability, influencing immune recognition and epitope diversity[6][4][8]. Direct drug targeting of VP2 is uncommon, but its antigenic properties make it a focus for vaccine development and serological assays. If VP2 is referenced without specifying virus type, additional characterization should be provided, as VP2 is a conserved nomenclature for various unrelated viral proteins. Each VP2 fulfills parallel roles in viral structure and function, with some species-specific molecular and immunological features.

Other names

Minor capsid protein VP2Structural protein VP2JC virus VP2IBDV VP2BTV VP2DWV VP2Rotavirus VP2

Neutralizing antibodies block viral entry by binding VP2 and preventing receptor interaction (e.g., BTV). VP2–host protein interactions influence virus assembly (e.g., snapin—DWV).