CBX4 contributes to HIV-1 latency by forming phase-separated nuclear bodies and SUMOylating EZH2.

ABSTRACT: The retrovirus HIV-1 integrates into the host genome and establishes a latent viral reservoir that escapes immune surveillance. Molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 latency have been studied extensively to achieve a cure for the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Latency-reversing agents (LRAs) have been developed to reactivate and eliminate the latent reservoir by the immune system. To develop more promising LRAs, it is essential to evaluate new therapeutic targets. Here, we find that CBX4, a component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1), contributes to HIV-1 latency in seven latency models and primary CD4⁺ T cells. CBX4 forms nuclear bodies with liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) properties on the HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR) and recruits EZH2, the catalytic su

SUBMITTER: Wu L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9253744 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature