Trafficking and Activation of <i>Henipavirus</i>, <i>Parahenipavirus,</i> and Henipa-like Virus Fusion Proteins
<i>Henipaviruses</i> are emerging zoonotic viruses that have caused deadly outbreaks in humans and livestock across several regions of the world. The fusion (F) protein of <i>henipaviruses</i> plays a critical role in viral entry into host cells and represents a key determina...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Viruses |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/6/866 |
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| Summary: | <i>Henipaviruses</i> are emerging zoonotic viruses that have caused deadly outbreaks in humans and livestock across several regions of the world. The fusion (F) protein of <i>henipaviruses</i> plays a critical role in viral entry into host cells and represents a key determinant of viral pathogenicity. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current knowledge regarding trafficking, activation, as well as the role in particle assembly, of <i>henipavirus</i> F proteins. We discuss the unique characteristics of <i>henipavirus</i> F proteins compared to other paramyxovirus fusion proteins, with particular emphasis on their distinctive trafficking and activation mechanisms. Attention is also given to novel <i>henipaviruses</i> that have been detected in hosts other than bats, namely rodents and shrews. These viruses are sufficiently different that the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has proposed a new genus for them, the <i>Parahenipaviruses</i>. We discuss how variations in F protein characteristics between <i>Henipaviruses</i>, <i>Parahenipaviruses</i>, and yet-unclassified henipa-like viruses might influence their trafficking and activation. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies against <i>henipavirus</i> infections and for predicting the emergence of novel <i>henipavirus</i> strains with pandemic potential. |
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| ISSN: | 1999-4915 |