HIV-1 Nef dimerization is required for Nef-mediated receptor downregulation and viral replication.

ABSTRACT: Nef, a human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) accessory factor capable of interaction with a diverse array of host cell signaling molecules, is essential for high-titer HIV replication and AIDS progression. Previous biochemical and structural studies have suggested that Nef may form homodimers and higher-order oligomers in HIV-infected cells, which may be required for both immune and viral receptor downregulation as well as viral replication. Using bimolecular fluorescence complementation, we provide the first direct evidence for Nef dimers within HIV host cells and identify the structural requirements for dimerization in vivo. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation analysis shows that the multiple hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions found within the dimerization interface of

SUBMITTER: Poe JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2783173 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature