HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 (subtype C) (gp120)

HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 is the surface subunit of the viral envelope spike, essential for the virus's ability to infect human CD4+ T cells. In HIV-1 subtype C, the most globally prevalent variant, gp120 mediates the initial attachment to the host CD4 receptor and subsequent interaction with coreceptors, typically CCR5. These binding events are the first steps in the viral entry process, making gp120 a primary target for both small-molecule entry inhibitors and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). Because it is the most exposed part of the virus, it is also the main focus of HIV vaccine research aiming to elicit protective immune responses. However, the protein's high genetic diversity, extensive glycosylation (the glycan shield), and structural flexibility allow the virus to frequently evade host immune detection and develop resistance to therapies.

Other names

Envgp120Surface glycoprotein gp120HIV-1 subtype C envelope proteinSU (surface subunit)

Attachment inhibition and neutralization of viral entry into host cells.