Abstract
The consensus HIV infection pathway, although well supported by abundant experimental evidence, fails to account for infection of cells (e.g., neurons) that lack CD4 and/or coreceptors. We present the hypothesis that p24 capsid protein laden with RNA may be an alternative virulent agent. A novel mechanism of HIV infection may involve binding of the capsid with membrane receptors, followed by internalization of the capsid-receptor complex. This new pathway suggests novel strategies for antiviral pharmacotherapy.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 919-921 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Medical Hypotheses |
Volume | 62 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2004 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)