Gp41

Gp41 is a transmembrane protein that plays a crucial role in the HIV infection process. It is one of the two proteins, along with gp120, that make up the envelope spike complex of the virus.

Structure

Gp41 is a glycoprotein that is approximately 41 kilodaltons in size. It is composed of a long hydrophobic region, which anchors the protein in the viral envelope, and an extracellular region, which interacts with gp120 and the host cell membrane during the fusion process.

Function

The primary function of gp41 is to facilitate the fusion of the viral and host cell membranes, allowing the viral genome to enter the host cell. This is achieved through a series of conformational changes in the protein, triggered by the binding of gp120 to the CD4 receptor and a chemokine co-receptor on the host cell.

Role in HIV Infection

During the initial stages of HIV infection, gp41 and gp120 work together to enable the virus to enter host cells. Gp120 first binds to the CD4 receptor on the host cell, causing a conformational change that allows it to also bind to a chemokine co-receptor. This triggers further conformational changes in gp41, which then inserts its fusion peptide into the host cell membrane. The gp41 molecules then fold into a hairpin shape, bringing the viral and host cell membranes close together and facilitating their fusion.

Therapeutic Target

Due to its crucial role in the HIV infection process, gp41 is a potential target for antiretroviral therapy. Several drugs that inhibit the conformational changes in gp41, and thus prevent membrane fusion, are currently in use or under development.

See Also

• HIV
• Gp120
• CD4
• Chemokine
• Antiretroviral therapy

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