Human immunodeficiency virus 1 gp120 high-mannose glycans (HIV-1 gp120 glycans)

Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) gp120 high-mannose glycans, collectively known as the mannose patch, are a dense cluster of N-linked carbohydrates on the surface of the viral envelope glycoprotein gp120. These glycans, primarily of the Man5-Man9 variety, arise because the dense packing of the viral spike prevents host cell enzymes from fully processing the sugars into complex forms. Biologically, this glycan shield serves as a primary defense mechanism, masking underlying protein epitopes from the host immune system. However, this cluster has emerged as a vulnerable target for broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) such as 2G12 and PGT121, as well as various plant and algal lectins like Griffithsin. Therapeutic strategies targeting these glycans aim to block viral attachment and entry into CD4+ T cells, making them a focal point for both vaccine development and microbicide research.

Other names

Mannose patchgp120 glycan shieldHigh-mannose patchN-linked glycans of gp120HIV-1 envelope glycan cluster

Neutralization of viral entry by sterically hindering the interaction between the viral envelope and host cell receptors (CD4 and coreceptors) or by preventing the conformational changes required for membrane fusion.