receptor-mediated virion attachment to host cell

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process by which a virion attaches to a host cell by binding to a receptor on the host cell surface. [ISBN:0879694971]

Receptor-mediated virion attachment to host cell is a crucial initial step in the viral infection process. It involves a highly specific interaction between viral attachment proteins and complementary receptors present on the surface of susceptible host cells. This intricate dance of molecular recognition sets the stage for subsequent events, ultimately leading to viral entry and propagation.

1. **Viral Attachment Proteins:** Viruses possess specialized proteins, known as attachment proteins, that mediate the initial binding to the host cell. These proteins often reside on the viral envelope or capsid and exhibit remarkable affinity for specific host cell receptors.

2. **Host Cell Receptors:** Host cells display an array of proteins and glycoproteins on their surface, acting as receptors for various molecules, including viruses. These receptors serve as docking sites for viral attachment proteins, initiating the infection cascade.

3. **Specificity and Affinity:** The interaction between viral attachment proteins and host cell receptors is characterized by high specificity and affinity. This specificity ensures that the virus targets appropriate host cells, while the affinity guarantees a stable and prolonged attachment.

4. **Binding and Conformational Changes:** Once the viral attachment proteins bind to the host cell receptors, conformational changes can occur in both the virus and the receptor. These changes often trigger subsequent steps in the infection process, such as viral entry or internalization.

5. **Viral Entry Mechanisms:** Depending on the virus, different mechanisms facilitate viral entry into the host cell. Some viruses, like enveloped viruses, fuse their membrane with the host cell membrane, releasing the viral genome into the cytoplasm. Others, like non-enveloped viruses, may be internalized through endocytosis, forming vesicles that encapsulate the virus.

6. **Receptor Downregulation:** In some cases, the binding of viral attachment proteins to host cell receptors can lead to receptor downregulation, a process where the receptors are internalized or degraded. This mechanism can hinder further viral attachment and potentially limit infection.

7. **Evolutionary Arms Race:** The interaction between viruses and their host cells is a constant evolutionary arms race. Viruses evolve to adapt to new receptors or evade host defenses, while host cells develop mechanisms to resist infection.

8. **Therapeutic Targets:** The receptor-mediated virion attachment process represents a promising target for antiviral therapies. Blocking or disrupting this interaction can prevent viral entry and infection. Antiviral drugs targeting viral attachment proteins or host cell receptors are actively being developed and show significant therapeutic potential.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (164)