Invitrogen™ HTLV-2 env 801 Monoclonal Antibody (8.A.033)

The HTLV-2 env 801 gene encodes the envelope glycoprotein, which is pivotal for virus entry into host cells. Human T-cell leukemia virus type 2 (HTLV-2) shares many structural features with HTLV-1, with the envelope (Env) protein being a critical component in mediating viral entry via interaction with cell surface receptors. The env gene product is synthesized as a precursor that is cleaved into the surface (SU) and transmembrane (TM) subunits. The SU subunit facilitates receptor binding, while the TM subunit aids in membrane fusion, enabling the virus to enter the host cell. HTLV-2 predominantly targets and transforms CD8+ T-cells, distinct from HTLV-1, which primarily transforms CD4 ⁺ T-cells. Understanding the structural and functional nuances of the HTLV-2 envelope protein is crucial as it presents a target for therapeutic interventions aimed at preventing viral entry and subsequent infection.