HIV-1 proviral DNA

HIV-1 proviral DNA refers to the form of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 genome that has been reverse transcribed from viral RNA into double-stranded DNA and integrated into the host cell’s genome[2][5][6]. This integrated DNA contains the full set of viral genes and regulatory elements, including long terminal repeats (LTRs) that function as the viral promoter and facilitate transcription by host RNA polymerase II[1][2][4]. The proviral DNA serves as the template for viral gene expression and genome replication, leading to the production of new viral particles. It is the principal molecular basis of HIV latency in infected individuals, providing a stable reservoir that persists for life and is resistant to current antiretroviral therapies[1][7]. HIV-1 proviral DNA is not a conventional drug target like a protein, enzyme, or receptor, but rather the integrated, persistent viral genome itself; eradication or inactivation of this DNA is a major therapeutic goal in HIV cure research[7].

Other names

HIV-1 provirusHIV-1 integrated DNAHuman immunodeficiency virus type 1 proviral DNA

Integrase inhibitors block integration of viral DNA into the host genome Latency-reversing agents reactivate transcription from proviral DNA, exposing latent reservoirs to immune clearance Research-stage gene editing aims to excise or inactivate proviral DNA