Multifaceted action of Fuzeon as virus-cell membrane fusion inhibitor

Avraham Ashkenazi, Yael Wexler-Cohen, Yechiel Shai*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

The viral peptide fusion inhibitor Fuzeon (T-20/DP178/enfuvirtide) is an essential part of the drug combination that has significantly increased the quality of life and life span of many acquired immuno-deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. Its development as a drug preceded the elucidation of its precise inhibitory mechanism, as well as its molecular targets. The initial model was that Fuzeon inhibits human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) entry by targeting one site within the viral transmembrane envelope protein. Herein, we describe the emerging discoveries that extend this model towards a multifaceted mechanism for the drug in targeting HIV. This significantly advances the understanding of how viruses enter host cells and opens a new window of opportunity for designing future viral fusion inhibitors.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2352-2358
Number of pages7
JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta - Biomembranes
Volume1808
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2011
Externally publishedYes

Funding

FundersFunder number
Israel Science Foundation

    Keywords

    • HIV entry inhibitor
    • Membrane fusion
    • Transmembrane protein
    • Viral envelope protein

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Multifaceted action of Fuzeon as virus-cell membrane fusion inhibitor'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this