HIV-1: seven facets of functional molecular mimicry

Molecular mimicry, where structural properties borne by a pathogen "imitate" or "simulate" molecules of the host, is shown to take make different forms in the molecular biology of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). There is considerable evidence that a number of important immunopathologic processes are incited by HIV-1 infection, due to molecular mimicry. Accordingly, a systematic review of this evidence is intended to define the fundamental immunopathogenic properties of this virus in terms relevant to the science of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) susceptibility, prevention, and treatment.