gp120gp41

The gp120gp41 complex is a critical component of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) envelope. This complex is formed by two distinct glycoproteins, gp120 and gp41, which are translated as a single precursor polyprotein, gp160, and then cleaved by a cellular protease. Gp120 is the outer envelope glycoprotein and is responsible for binding to host cell receptors, primarily CD4. This binding initiates a conformational change in the gp120gp41 complex. Gp41 is the transmembrane glycoprotein and anchors the complex within the viral envelope. Following gp120 binding to CD4, gp41 undergoes further conformational changes that facilitate the fusion of the viral membrane with the host cell membrane. This fusion process is essential for the entry of the HIV virion into the target cell, a crucial step in the viral replication cycle. The gp120gp41 complex is a major target for the host immune system and is also a primary target for many antiretroviral drugs, including entry inhibitors. Antibodies targeting various parts of the gp120gp41 complex have been investigated as potential therapeutic agents.