Anti-HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase also known as HIV-1 RT or HIV RT is an essential enzyme in the lifecycle of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1. This enzyme consists of two subunits p66 and p51 with a combined molecular mass of approximately 116 kDa. It expresses within the viral particles of HIV-1 where the enzyme catalyzes the conversion of viral RNA into DNA a process fundamental to viral replication. This ability to reverse transcribe RNA makes HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase a primary focus for antiretroviral therapy in the treatment of HIV infections as it is a unique feature absent in host cells.

Biological function summary

HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase acts as a central player in the viral replication process by establishing an integrated provirus from the viral RNA genome. The enzyme is not part of a larger complex but works closely with other HIV-1 proteins such as integrase to facilitate the integration of the newly synthesized viral DNA into the host genome. This integration is a critical step in the viral life cycle and ensures the persistence of the virus in infected cells which then leads to the continuous production of new viral particles.

Pathways

HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase functions in the retroviral replication pathway. The enzyme's activity links intimately with other viral enzymes like HIV-1 integrase which assist in embedding the newly formed DNA into the host cell's DNA. This process aligns with the broader reverse transcription pathway including interactions with host cellular machinery that contribute to subsequent viral transcription and replication phases. Understanding these interactions helps in designing effective therapeutic strategies that target various stages of the HIV replication cycle.

Associated diseases and disorders

HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase directly relates to HIV and AIDS primarily due to its fundamental role in the HIV replication process. Therapies targeting this enzyme aim to hinder viral replication and decrease viral load in infected individuals. Furthermore resistance mutations in HIV1 Reverse Transcriptase can lead to challenges in treatment requiring the development of new inhibitors. The enzyme's interaction with other HIV-1 proteins such as protease also highlights its significance in resistance mechanisms and therapeutic targeting in the fight against HIV/AIDS.