Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 nucleic acids (HIV-1 RNA/DNA)

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) nucleic acids encompass the viral genomic RNA and the integrated proviral DNA, which together constitute the genetic blueprint of the virus (NIH, 2023). The HIV-1 genome is approximately 9.7 kilobases in length and encodes nine genes that are essential for the viral lifecycle, including structural proteins and regulatory factors (PubMed, 2022). Upon infection, the viral RNA is reverse-transcribed into DNA and integrated into the host cell's genome, establishing a persistent reservoir that is the primary obstacle to a cure (Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2021). While standard antiretroviral therapy (ART) targets viral proteins like reverse transcriptase and integrase, emerging therapeutic modalities directly target the nucleic acids to achieve viral eradication or long-term suppression. These include CRISPR/Cas9 systems, such as EBT-101, designed to excise proviral DNA and RNA interference (RNAi) or antisense technologies aimed at degrading viral transcripts (Excision BioTherapeutics, 2024). Targeting the nucleic acids is a central strategy in curative research frameworks seeking to eliminate the latent viral reservoir. This approach aims to move beyond lifelong viral suppression toward a definitive functional or sterilizing cure for HIV-1 infection.

Other names

HIV-1 genomeHIV-1 proviral DNAHIV-1 RNAHIV-1 genomic RNAHIV-1 transcriptsHIV-1 provirus

Direct cleavage of proviral DNA via CRISPR/Cas9, degradation of viral mRNA transcripts through RNA interference, and inhibition of viral translation using antisense oligonucleotides (Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2021; Excision BioTherapeutics, 2024).