Viral structural protein

Viral structural proteins are components of mature virus particles, forming the physical structure (capsid, envelope, glycoprotein spikes, etc.) and playing key roles in viral assembly, stability, host cell entry, and immune evasion. The class includes capsid proteins that enclose the viral genome, envelope proteins that facilitate membrane fusion, and glycoprotein spikes that mediate host cell receptor binding. Some structural proteins (e.g., nucleocapsid) are also involved in genome packaging and replication. Although often targeted by vaccines and antiviral drugs (such as fusion inhibitors), the term "viral structural protein" is generic and does not denote a specific protein target, making it less suitable for precise molecular targeting or drug development. For therapeutic intent, it is important to specify the particular viral protein (e.g., "HIV-1 gp41" or "SARS-CoV-2 spike protein") rather than the general class.

Other names

Structural viral proteinVirion structural proteinCapsid proteinEnvelope proteinGlycoprotein spikeNucleocapsid protein

Inhibition of viral fusion (e.g., enfuvirtide); Vaccination by induction of protective immunity against viral capsid proteins