Is RNA-laden p24 capsid protein a vector for HIV?
The consensus HIV infection pathway, although well supported by abundant experimental evidence, fails to account for infection of cells (e.g., neurons) that lack CD4 and/or coreceptors. We present the hypothesis that p24 capsid protein laden with RNA may be an alternative virulent agent. A novel mechanism of HIV infection may involve binding of the capsid with membrane receptors, followed by internalization of the capsid-receptor complex. This new pathway suggests novel strategies for antiviral pharmacotherapy.
Lipkowski
Andrzej W
AW
Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02106 Warsaw, Poland. lipkowski@cmdik.pan.pl
Carr
Daniel B
DB
Hruby
Victor J
VJ
Yoshikawa
Masaaki
M
D036022:Capsid Proteins / Q000235:genetics; D016655:HIV Core Protein p24 / Q000737:chemistry*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010455:Peptides / Q000737:chemistry; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000737:chemistry*; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
D036022:Capsid Proteins; D016655:HIV Core Protein p24; D010455:Peptides; D012367:RNA, Viral; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled