Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Gag Protein (None)

The HIV-1 Gag protein (Group-specific antigen) is a polyprotein that plays a central and multifaceted role in the late phase of the HIV-1 viral lifecycle. It is essential for virion assembly, genome packaging, and virus particle release. Initially considered merely a structural or scaffolding protein, extensive research has revealed that Gag orchestrates multiple critical steps in viral replication through its distinct domains. The precursor Gag polyprotein (p55, ~55 kDa) consists of four main structural domains: Matrix (MA/p17), Capsid (CA/p24), Nucleocapsid (NC/p7), and p6, as well as two small spacer peptides: SP1 and SP2. After translation, the full-length Gag polyprotein undergoes proteolytic cleavage by the viral protease at five specific sites during or shortly after budding, yielding its mature components: MA, CA, NC, p6, SP1, and SP2. Gag directs trafficking to the plasma membrane, multimerization/autoassembly into virus-like particles, specific encapsidation/packaging of genomic RNA, recruitment of host cell proteins required for assembly/budding, and interaction with other viral proteins. Gag has emerged as an important target for antiretroviral therapy development.

Other names

HIV-1 GagGag polyproteinp55

Inhibition of Gag processing, disruption of capsid assembly, interference with genome packaging, inhibition of budding/release