Mouse Anti-Vaccinia Virus Cell Surface-Binding Protein D8L Monoclonal Antibody

The vaccinia virus cell surface-binding protein D8L, also known as A56R in some strains, is a pivotal virulence factor that plays a significant role in the early stages of viral infection. This glycoprotein is responsible for the initial attachment of the virus to host cells, a critical step in the viral entry process. D8L binds to specific cell surface receptors, facilitating the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane, which allows the virus to inject its genetic material into the cell. Understanding the molecular details of D8L's interaction with host receptors is crucial for developing strategies to prevent viral entry. As a target for antiviral therapies, D8L offers a promising avenue for intervention, as inhibiting its binding capacity could impede the virus's ability to initiate infection. The structural and functional characterization of D8L is essential for elucidating the mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions and could lead to the identification of novel inhibitors or vaccines that can thwart the vaccinia virus and related poxviruses.