Research Progress in the F Gene and Protein of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus.
- Author:
Feng ZHANG
;
Zhengde XIE
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Animals;
Antibodies, Monoclonal;
immunology;
Humans;
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections;
immunology;
prevention & control;
virology;
Respiratory Syncytial Viruses;
genetics;
immunology;
Viral Fusion Proteins;
genetics;
immunology;
Viral Vaccines;
genetics;
immunology
- From:
Chinese Journal of Virology
2015;31(2):201-206
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae and subfamily Pneumovirinae. The RSV can cause acute infections of the lower respiratory tract in infants. The F gene of the RSV is a conservative gene and varies only slightly in its expression. Few studies focusing on the variability of the F gene have been carried out. F protein (fusion glycoprotein) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that mediates fusion and penetration between the virus and host cells. Neutralizing antibody against the F protein can protect against infection by RSV subtypes A and B. Hence, F protein has become the main target for the development of a monoclonal antibody and vaccine against the RSV. An effective vaccine is not available, so a monoclonal antibody against F protein is now the most important method to reduce the morbidity and severity associated with RSV infection in high-risk children. However, a monoclonal antibody can lead to the production of drug-resistant strains of the RSV. This review focuses on genetic variation of the F gene of the RSV as well as progress in the development of a monoclonal antibody against F protein and a vaccine in the last decade.
