Research progress on HIV-1 structural proteins and antiviral therapies

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), encompassing HIV-1 and HIV-2, is a retrovirus responsible for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
• HIV infection progressively damages the immune system, particularly CD4+ T lymphocytes, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections and cancers.
• HIV-1 is the predominant global strain, and research on its structural proteins is crucial for therapeutic advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a narrative review of recent progress in developing antiviral drugs targeting HIV-1 structural proteins (Gag, Pol, Env).
• To discuss future strategies for designing novel anti-HIV therapies.
• To offer insights for accelerating the development of next-generation anti-HIV drugs and enhancing global AIDS control.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing scientific literature.
• Analysis of recent advances in antiviral drug development targeting HIV structural proteins.
• Discussion of future drug design strategies based on current research.

Main Results:

• Recent advances in targeting HIV-1 structural proteins Gag, Pol, and Env have been identified.
• Key functional mechanisms and inhibitor development strategies for these proteins are discussed.
• Insights into accelerating next-generation anti-HIV drug development are presented.

Conclusions:

• Targeting HIV-1 structural proteins is a critical area for advancing anti-AIDS drug research.
• Future drug design strategies are essential for overcoming challenges in HIV treatment.
• Accelerated development of novel antiviral therapies is crucial for global AIDS control efforts.