30816n/aENSG00000242950n/aQ9UQF0n/aNM_014590NM_001130925n/aNP_001124397NP_055405n/aSyncytin-1 also known as enverin is a protein found in humans and other primates that is encoded by the ERVW-1 gene (endogenous retrovirus group W envelope member 1).

[5] Syncytin-1 is one of two known syncytin proteins expressed in catarrhini primates (the other being syncytin-2) and one of many viral genomes incorporated on multiple occasions over evolutionary time in diverse mammalian species.

The syncytiotrophoblast layer is the interface between the developing fetus and the maternal blood supply, which forms, together with the underlying basal membrane and the fetal endothelium the placental barrier.

The placental barrier enables nutrient and waste exchange, while blocking maternal immune and other cells, particles and molecules from passing into the fetal blood circulation.

The motif SDGGGX2DX2R is present in all RDR interference group members within this conserved region and may play an important role in binding.

[20] Both glycosylation pattern and amino acid sequence differences between human and rodent receptors are determinants in susceptibility to infection by RDR interference group members.

[8] The two subunits form a heterodimer and are likely linked by a disulfide bond between two conserved cysteine rich motifs: CXXC in SU and CX6CC in TM.

Syncytin-1 TM contains the fusion peptide, and two heptad repeats separated by a chain reversal region common to class I retroviral glycoproteins.

Multiple sclerosis retrovirus like particle (MSRV) envelope protein shares high sequence similarity to ERVW-1 encoded syncytin-1 and has long been studied as an important factor in MS pathogenesis.