P24

P24 is a protein that is often used as a biomarker in HIV testing. It is a part of the HIV virus's capsid, which is a protein shell that encloses the virus's RNA.

Structure

The P24 protein is a capsid protein that is part of the HIV virus. It is a small, rigid protein that forms the core of the virus, enclosing the virus's RNA. The protein is composed of 231 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 24 kiloDaltons.

Role in HIV

In the HIV virus, the P24 protein plays a crucial role in the virus's life cycle. It is involved in the assembly and disassembly of the virus, as well as in the replication of the virus's RNA. The protein is also involved in the maturation of the virus, helping to transform the immature virus into its infectious form.

Use in HIV testing

The P24 protein is often used as a biomarker in HIV testing. Because the protein is produced in high amounts during the early stages of HIV infection, it can be detected in the blood before antibodies to the virus are produced. This makes it useful in early detection of the virus.

See also

• HIV
• Capsid
• Biomarker
• RNA

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