Targeting the viral nucleocapsid protein in anti-HIV-1 therapy

Mini Rev Med Chem. 2008 Jan;8(1):24-35. doi: 10.2174/138955708783331603.

Abstract

The nucleocapsid protein (NC) plays seminal roles in HIV replication, thus representing a major drug target. NC functions rely on its two zinc-fingers and flanking basic residues. Zinc ejectors inhibit NC functions, but with limited specificity. New classes of molecules competing with NC or its viral nucleic acid and enzyme partners are reviewed here.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents / chemistry*
  • Anti-HIV Agents / pharmacology
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • HIV-1 / drug effects*
  • HIV-1 / physiology
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Nucleocapsid Proteins / chemistry
  • Nucleocapsid Proteins / drug effects*
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Virus Replication / drug effects
  • Zinc Fingers / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Nucleocapsid Proteins