HIV-1 entry: Duels between Env and host antiviral transmembrane proteins on the surface of virus particles

Human Immunodeficiency Virus type-1 (HIV-1) is the causative agent of AIDS. Its entry step is mediated by the envelope glycoprotein (Env). During the entry process, Env vastly changes its conformation. While non-liganded Env tends to have a closed structure, receptor-binding of Env opens its conformation, which leads to virus-cell membrane fusion. Single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET) imaging allows observation of these conformational changes on the virion surface. Nascent HIV-1 particles incorporate multiple host transmembrane proteins, some of which inhibit the entry process. The Env structure or its dynamics may determine the effectiveness of these antiviral mechanisms. Here, we review recent findings about the Env conformation changes on virus particles and inhibition of Env activities by virion-incorporated host transmembrane proteins.