Scientists from Geneva and Zurich universities have identified a protein mechanism that can fight against HIV.
The TRIM5 protein gives HIV resistance to rhesus monkeys and the scientists are taking steps to try this new cellular protein in humans. When the HI virus enters the cell, the protein inhibits the multiplication of the virus. The discovery could open new potential treatments to combat HIV.
Researchers from Swiss, Geneva and Zurich universities teamed up with researchers from USA and France and discovered the main features of defense mechanism of the TRIM5 protein against HIV. Once the cell gets infected with HIV, the TRIM5 protein instantly activates an immune reaction. Therefore, the TRIM5 acts as an HIV sensor in the inborn immune system, which destroys pathogens immediately on contact.
The HIV virus has a shell and its parts are organized in a lattice structure. The TRIM5 protein is capable of identifying this lattice structure and purposely fixes itself to it. This activates the protein to generate polyubiquitin chains inside the cell. The chains instantly activate an anti-viral response and the cell discharges cytokines to destroy the HIV infected cells.
The TRIM5 protein in humans is not effective in combating HIV, but the latest finding offers possible treatment options to fight the disease.
Source: http://www.uzh.ch/