Simian immunodeficiency virus envelope glycoprotein (SIV Env)

The Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) envelope glycoprotein is a complex, trimeric surface protein essential for the viral infection cycle. It is synthesized as a gp160 precursor and processed into gp120 and gp41 subunits, which mediate host cell attachment and membrane fusion, respectively (UniProt P05884). By binding to the host CD4 receptor and a co-receptor such as CCR5, the protein undergoes conformational changes that allow the virus to deposit its genetic material into the host cell (NIH/NIAID). As the sole viral protein exposed on the exterior of the virion, it is the primary target for the host's neutralizing antibody response and a focal point for vaccine design (PubMed PMID: 29167454). In therapeutic research, SIV Env is targeted by broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) and fusion inhibitors, which aim to block viral entry and prevent the progression to an AIDS-like syndrome in non-human primates (Nature 561, 479–480). The high degree of glycosylation and rapid mutational escape of SIV Env present significant challenges for the development of long-lasting immunity and effective treatments (PubMed PMID: 26416916).

Other names

SIV gp160SIV gp120SIV gp41SIV envelope proteinEnv

Neutralization of viral particles and inhibition of viral-cell membrane fusion.