CD4-gp120 Interaction

The CD4-gp120 interaction is a critical molecular event in the entry process of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) into host cells. gp120 is the external envelope glycoprotein of HIV-1, while CD4 is a cell surface receptor primarily found on T-helper lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. The binding of gp120 to CD4 initiates a cascade of conformational changes that are essential for viral entry, including exposure of the co-receptor binding site (CCR5 or CXCR4) and subsequent membrane fusion. This interaction is a key target for therapeutic intervention to prevent HIV infection.

CD4-gp120 interaction is the primary target for entry inhibitors, preventing the virus from attaching to and entering host cells. Blocking this interaction prevents downstream events like coreceptor binding and membrane fusion.