PERV Env

Full Name: Type A porcine endogenous retrovirus Env protein

BACKGROUND: Type A Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus (PERV-A) is a type of endogenous retrovirus found in pigs. These viruses are integrated into the pig genome and can be transmitted vertically from one generation to the next. Among the different classes of PERVs (A, B, and C), PERV-A is particularly notable for its ability to infect not only pig cells but also human cells, which raises concerns in the context of xenotransplantation—the transplantation of pig organs into humans. The Env protein (envelope protein) of PERV-A is a glycoprotein located on the surface of the virus. It plays a crucial role in the virus’s ability to enter host cells.

Synonyms: Type A porcine endogenous retrovirus; PERV; Env protein