Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 p24 Gag capsid protein (HIV-1 p24 (CA))

The HIV-1 p24 Gag protein (also known as capsid protein, CA) is a 24 kDa viral structural protein encoded by the HIV-1 gag gene. It forms the core shell of the HIV virion and is essential for viral assembly, maturation, RNA encapsidation, and successful replication in host cells. p24 interacts with host factors such as cyclophilin A and IP6, which are crucial for capsid stabilization, nuclear import, and infectivity. As a highly conserved and immunogenic protein, p24 serves as a diagnostic marker for HIV infection and is a key target in vaccine and antiretroviral drug research, particularly for maturation inhibitors. Its sequence variability facilitates viral evasion of cell-mediated immunity, presenting challenges for both therapy and vaccine design.

Other names

p24 (capsid protein)CA (capsid protein)HIV-1 capsid proteinGag p24HIV-1 CA protein

Maturation inhibition: Drugs like Bevirimat and PF-96 block the CA-SP1 cleavage, arresting viral maturation and rendering virions non-infectious. Immune recognition: Vaccines or therapies targeting p24 aim to elicit CTL responses or antibody production to clear infected cells or virions.