Structural basis for Zika envelope domain III recognition by a germline version of a recurrent neutralizing antibody.

ABSTRACT: Recent epidemics demonstrate the global threat of Zika virus (ZIKV), a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes. Although infection is usually asymptomatic or mild, newborns of infected mothers can display severe symptoms, including neurodevelopmental abnormalities and microcephaly. Given the large-scale spread, symptom severity, and lack of treatment or prophylaxis, a safe and effective ZIKV vaccine is urgently needed. However, vaccine design is complicated by concern that elicited antibodies (Abs) may cross-react with other flaviviruses that share a similar envelope protein, such as dengue virus, West Nile virus, and yellow fever virus. This cross-reactivity may worsen symptoms of a subsequent infection through Ab-dependent enhancement. To better understand the neutralizing Ab response and r

SUBMITTER: Esswein SR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7211955 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature