Work

Identification of a Conserved Linear Epitope on the p54 Protein of African Swine Fever Virus

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly virulent pathogen that causes nearly 100% mortality in acute infections and poses persistent risks. Effective containment of ASFV outbreaks requires rapid and reliable diagnostic tools. The p54 protein, a key structural component of ASFV, has emerged as an important target for serological detection. Herein, the recombinant p54 protein (amino acids 53–184) was expressed in Escherichia coli, and three mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (IgG1/kappa subtype) were developed. Among these mAbs, the mAb 1F9 specifically recognized the B-cell epitope 66IQFINPYQDQQ76, which is conserved across different genotypes of ASFV, suggesting that the epitope may serve as a valuable target for serological detection of ASFV. Structural modeling analysis revealed that this epitope is surface-exposed on the p54 protein, with 67Gln and 68Phe identified as critical residues for 1F9 binding. Moreover, a blocking ELISA based on the mAb 1F9 was established for detecting ASFV-specific antibodies in clinical serum samples, achieving a coincidence rate exceeding 95%. These findings demonstrate that mAb 1F9, targeting a conserved and accessible region of p54, represents a valuable tool for ASFV serodiagnosis, surveillance, and outbreak management.

Source: Viruses

DOI: 10.3390/v17060823