Question

Which among the following acts as entry receptor of Rabies virus?

• A. Heparin Sulphate
• B. Acetylcholine
• C. ICAM - I
• D. Dopamine

Hint:

Viral Receptors:
Rabies Virus $\rightarrow$ Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor (nAChR) & NCAM.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease $\rightarrow$ Integrins ($\alpha_v\beta_6$).
Influenza $\rightarrow$ Sialic acid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Rabies virus neurotropism utilizes post-synaptic neuromuscular junction receptors for initial motor endplate entry and retrograde axoplasmic transport.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Pathogenesis and cellular entry of Rabies Virus (Lyssavirus):
- Following animal bite inoculation, the viral surface glycoprotein (G-protein) binds with high affinity to the Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor (nAChR) located on the postsynaptic membrane of myocytes at the neuromuscular junction.
- Secondary neuronal co-receptors include Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule (NCAM CD56) and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR).
- Receptor binding triggers clathrin-mediated endocytosis, allowing the virion to enter peripheral motor nerve endings for retrograde axonal transport to the central nervous system.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the entry receptor of Rabies virus is Acetylcholine receptor, corresponding to option (B).