Abstract
Without its Vpu protein, the AIDS-associated virus HIV-1 becomes stuck to the surface of the human cell in which it has replicated. The mysterious factor that tethers HIV-1 is probably a cell-membrane protein. Studies of Vpu, an HIV-1 accessory protein required for efficient HIV-1 particle release in some human cells, pointed to the existence of a tether based in a cell surface protein inducible by interferon-α. That tether has now been identified as the host cell molecule CD317— renamed tetherin — a membrane protein with no previously known function. Tetherin is shown to be involved in the retention of HIV-1 virions at the cell surface. Vpu neutralizes its effect, allowing the release and propagation of virus particles. Inhibition of Vpu function is therefore a possible therapeutic strategy in HIV/AIDS.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
