HIV-1 nef, Clade B
Description
Product Specs
Lyophilized with a 1% glycerol concentration.
Product Science Overview
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a major global health concern. Among its various components, the Nef protein plays a crucial role in the virus’s ability to replicate and evade the host’s immune system. The Nef protein is highly conserved across different clades of HIV-1, including Clade B, which is predominant in North America and Europe.
Nef, short for Negative Factor, is an accessory protein that enhances the infectivity of HIV-1. It is involved in several key functions:
- Downregulation of CD4 and MHC-I molecules: This helps the virus evade the host’s immune response.
- Activation of Src-family kinases: Nef interacts with host cell proteins, including Src-family kinases, to enhance viral replication .
- Modulation of apoptosis: Nef can protect infected cells from apoptosis, allowing the virus to persist longer in the host.
Clade B is one of the most studied subtypes of HIV-1. The Nef protein in Clade B has been shown to activate Src-family kinases such as Hck and Lyn, which are crucial for viral replication . This activation is a conserved property across various primary isolates of HIV-1, making it a significant target for antiretroviral therapies.
Recombinant Nef proteins are engineered versions of the natural protein, often used in research to study the virus’s behavior and to develop vaccines. For instance, a recombinant fusion protein consisting of HIV-1 Clade B antigens, including Nef, has been used in vaccine trials to induce strong immune responses . These recombinant proteins are crucial for understanding the virus’s mechanisms and developing effective treatments.
