AP2: an indispensable host factor in virus infection
Abstract
Adaptor protein complex 2 (AP2), a central regulator of clathrin-mediated endocytosis and intracellular cargo trafficking, is hijacked by numerous viruses to complete their infectious cycles. This review systematically synthesizes the multifaceted roles of AP2 across the entire viral life cycle, from entry and replication to assembly and release, as well as in immune evasion. By delineating how diverse viruses exploit this key host machinery, we further consolidate the rationale and current progress in developing broad-spectrum antiviral strategies that target AP2 and its regulatory pathways. This work aims to provide a unified perspective on AP2 as a critical host-pathogen interface, offering new insights into viral pathogenesis and antiviral drug discovery.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Cellular transport and secretion
interferon and immune responses
Lipid Membrane Structure and Behavior
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Virology
- Publisher
- American Society for Microbiology
- Volume
- 100
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- e0216425–e0216425
- Publication date
- 21 January 2026
- Language
- EN