HIV-1 capsid protein p24 (p24) (p24)

The HIV-1 capsid protein p24 (CA) is a vital structural component of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1, formed by the proteolytic cleavage of the Gag polyprotein (Pr55Gag) by viral protease (UniProt: P04591). It assembles into a conical shell that protects the viral RNA genome and facilitates its transport into the host cell nucleus. Conserved epitopes within p24 are of significant interest in vaccine development because they are less prone to mutation, potentially allowing for a broad immune response across diverse viral clades (PubMed: 28834800). In addition to its role in assembly and uncoating, p24 is a validated therapeutic target for capsid inhibitors like Lenacapavir, which bind to the interface between p24 subunits to disrupt viral replication (PubChem: CID 134448934). Clinically, p24 serves as a critical biomarker for early HIV diagnosis, as the antigen is detectable in the blood shortly after infection. Targeting the conserved regions of p24 remains a cornerstone strategy for both long-acting antiretroviral therapy and the development of a functional cure.

Other names

HIV-1 CACapsid proteinGag-p24p24 antigenCA protein

Capsid inhibitors like Lenacapavir bind directly to the p24 subunits, interfering with the stability of the capsid shell and disrupting multiple stages of the viral life cycle, including nuclear import and virion maturation (PubMed: 33028611). Vaccines targeting conserved p24 epitopes aim to stimulate the host immune system, particularly cytotoxic T lymphocytes, to recognize and destroy infected cells across various HIV-1 strains, thereby preventing viral escape (PubMed: 28834800).