Zika virus envelope protein-specific B-cell and T-cell receptors (ZIKV E-specific BCR/TCR)

Zika virus envelope protein-specific B-cell and T-cell receptors are the primary mediators of the adaptive immune response against Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. The ZIKV envelope (E) protein is the major surface glycoprotein involved in viral attachment and membrane fusion, making it the dominant target for neutralizing antibodies and cellular immunity (Sirohi et al., 2016, Science). B-cell receptors (BCRs) recognize conformational or linear epitopes on the E protein, leading to the production of antibodies that can neutralize the virus by preventing its entry into host cells (Stettler et al., 2016, Science). T-cell receptors (TCRs) recognize E protein-derived peptides presented by MHC molecules, facilitating the activation of CD4+ helper T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which are essential for viral clearance and long-term memory (Grifoni et al., 2017, Journal of Virology). These receptors are the focus of vaccine development efforts, such as DNA and mRNA vaccines, which aim to elicit robust E-specific immune responses to prevent infection and associated complications like microcephaly (Abbink et al., 2016, Science). However, a significant challenge in targeting these receptors is the potential for antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), where cross-reactive antibodies from prior Dengue virus exposure may enhance ZIKV infection (Dejnirattisai et al., 2016, Nature).

Other names

Zika virus E protein-specific immune receptorsZIKV E-specific BCRs and TCRsAnti-ZIKV E protein receptorsZika virus envelope-specific B-cell and T-cell receptors

Vaccines (e.g., mRNA-1893, VRC 5283) act by presenting ZIKV E protein antigens to the immune system to stimulate the clonal expansion and affinity maturation of specific B-cell and T-cell receptors. Monoclonal antibodies (e.g., ZIKV-117) function as exogenous B-cell receptor analogs that bind to the E protein to neutralize viral particles and prevent infection of host cells.