HIV-2 envelope glycoprotein gp125 (gp125)

HIV-2 envelope glycoprotein gp125 is the surface subunit (SU) of the envelope protein complex of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 2 (HIV-2) (UniProt: P04571). It is functionally analogous to the gp120 protein of HIV-1, serving as the primary mediator for viral attachment and entry into host cells (PMID: 33669351). The protein facilitates infection by binding to the host cell surface receptor CD4 and subsequently to co-receptors, typically CCR5 or CXCR4 (NIH). This binding event induces conformational changes that trigger the associated transmembrane subunit, gp36, to execute membrane fusion (Source 1.2.5). gp125 is a major target for the host immune response, particularly for neutralizing antibodies, and is a focal point for the development of entry inhibitors and vaccines (Mol Biotechnol. 2005 Jun;30(2):155-62). However, its high degree of glycosylation and significant genetic variability present substantial challenges for therapeutic intervention (AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses. 1992 May;8(5):565-73). While HIV-2 progresses more slowly than HIV-1, it remains a significant cause of AIDS, and the unique structural features of gp125 contribute to the virus's natural resistance to several classes of antiretroviral drugs designed for HIV-1, such as NNRTIs and Enfuvirtide (NIH/NCBI).

Other names

Surface protein gp125SUgp125HIV-2 Env SUgp125 envelope protein

Inhibition of viral entry by blocking the interaction between the viral gp125 protein and host cell receptors (CD4, CCR5, or CXCR4).