spike protein

Meanings

nounspike protein (plural spike proteins)

biologyA protein used to bind or connect membranes together, such as a transmembrane link between a virus and a cell.
Many vaccines against the coronavirus, as well as several treatments, take aim at its spike protein, the virus’s most potent weapon — and its Achilles’ heel. Without its spikes, the pathogen can’t get into human cells.
2020 July 28, Katherine J. Wu, “The Coronavirus Could Dodge Some Treatments, Study Suggests”, in The New York Times, →ISSN
Synonyms: peplomer protein, S-protein, S

nounA protein used to bind or connect membranes together, such as a transmembrane link between a virus and a cell.

Similar

peplomer proteinS-protein S

Finnish piikkiproteiini

Cite this entry

APA

spike protein. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 2, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/spike%20protein

MLA

“spike protein.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/spike%20protein. Accessed November 2, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “spike protein,” accessed November 2, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/spike%20protein.