Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope glycoprotein (gp120 and gp41) (HIV-1 Env (including gp120, gp41))

HIV-1 antigens encompass all proteins encoded by the HIV-1 genome and presented on or released from the virus during its life cycle. Most therapeutically relevant targets are envelope glycoproteins gp120 and gp41 which facilitate viral attachment and fusion with host cells by binding CD4 and chemokine co-receptors. These antigens are recognized by the immune system and form the basis for diagnostic serology and vaccine development strategies, but their marked sequence variability poses a major challenge for broad-spectrum immunotherapies and vaccines. Other antigens, such as p24 and p17, are core and matrix proteins involved in viral structure and replication, but Env glycoproteins remain the predominant molecular targets for therapeutics and neutralizing antibody studies.

Other names

HIV-1 antigensHIV-1 envelope antigensHIV-1 Envgp120gp41HIV capsid antigen (p24)HIV matrix antigen (p17)

Inhibition of viral entry (blocking Env/CD4/receptor interactions); Neutralization of virus (antibody binding to conserved Env epitopes); Fusion blockade (gp41 inhibition)