HIV-1 gp41 Long
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
The HIV-1 gp41 protein is a crucial component of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein complex, which plays a significant role in the virus’s ability to infect host cells. The gp41 protein, along with gp120, forms the envelope glycoprotein (Env) complex that facilitates the fusion of the viral membrane with the host cell membrane, a critical step in the viral entry process.
The gp41 protein is a type I transmembrane protein composed of several domains, including an ectodomain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic domain . The ectodomain contains heptad repeats (HR1 and HR2) that are essential for the formation of a six-helix bundle structure, which drives the membrane fusion process . The transmembrane domain anchors the protein in the viral membrane, while the cytoplasmic domain interacts with the viral core.
Recombinant gp41 proteins are engineered versions of the native gp41 protein, designed to study its structure and function or to develop therapeutic interventions. These recombinant proteins can be produced in various expression systems, including bacterial, yeast, and mammalian cells. The “Long Recombinant” version of gp41 typically refers to a construct that includes the full-length ectodomain, transmembrane domain, and cytoplasmic domain, providing a more comprehensive model for studying the protein’s properties.
- Structural Studies: Recombinant gp41 proteins are used to elucidate the structural details of the protein, particularly the conformational changes that occur during the fusion process . These studies are crucial for understanding how the virus enters host cells and for identifying potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
- Vaccine Development: The gp41 protein is a target for vaccine development due to its conserved nature and critical role in viral entry. Recombinant gp41 proteins are used to generate immune responses in experimental vaccine formulations .
- Therapeutic Development: Recombinant gp41 proteins are also used to develop therapeutic agents, such as fusion inhibitors, that can block the interaction between gp41 and the host cell membrane, thereby preventing viral entry .
