Viral Antigens

About

The preS1 segment of the hepatitis B virus envelope L protein contains the receptor‑binding domain critical for viral entry. The N‑terminal 48 amino acids, particularly residues 9–15, and their myristoylation are essential for binding to hepatocyte receptors. Mutations in this region or synthetic myristoylated preS1 peptides can block infectivity. PreS1 antigens are used in vaccine development and to screen antiviral entry inhibitors.