HIV-1 TAT Clade-C
Description
Product Specs
HIV-1 Tat activates transcription of HIV-1 viral genes by inducing phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). Tat can also disturb cellular metabolism by inhibiting proliferation of antigen-specific T lymphocytes and by inducing cellular apoptosis. Tat-induced apoptosis of T-cells is attributed, in part, to the distortion of microtubules polymerization. LIS1 is a microtubule-associated protein that facilitates microtubule polymerization.
Store at 4°C if entire vial will be used within 2-4 weeks.
Store, frozen at -20°C for longer periods of time.
Avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles.
Product Science Overview
Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a highly mutable virus responsible for the global HIV/AIDS pandemic. Among its various subtypes, Clade C is the most prevalent, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. The HIV-1 Tat protein, a transactivator of transcription, plays a crucial role in viral replication and pathogenesis. Recombinant forms of the Tat protein, especially from Clade C, have been extensively studied for their potential in vaccine development and therapeutic interventions.
The Tat protein is essential for the efficient transcription of the HIV-1 genome. It binds to the Trans-Activation Response (TAR) element in the viral RNA, enhancing the processivity of RNA polymerase II and thereby increasing the production of viral mRNA. Tat is also involved in various other functions, including modulation of host immune responses and promotion of viral latency and reactivation.
Clade C HIV-1 is characterized by specific genetic and phenotypic features that distinguish it from other subtypes. The Tat protein from Clade C has unique amino acid sequences that influence its function and interaction with the TAR element. Studies have shown that certain Clade C-specific variants of Tat, such as C31S, R57S, and Q63E, exhibit reduced transactivation and neurovirulence compared to other subtypes .
Recombinant forms of the Tat protein are produced using various biotechnological methods to study their structure, function, and potential applications. These recombinant proteins are used in research to understand the molecular mechanisms of Tat-mediated transcription and to develop Tat-based vaccines and therapeutics.
Tat-based vaccines have shown promise in preclinical and clinical trials. For instance, a Phase I dose escalation trial of ADVAX, a DNA-based candidate HIV-1 vaccine expressing Clade C/B’ env, gag, pol, nef, and tat genes, demonstrated safety and modest immunogenicity in human volunteers . Another study conducted in South Africa showed that immunization with B-clade Tat induced cross-clade neutralizing antibodies and increased CD4+ T cell counts in antiretroviral-treated volunteers .
