Integrase
From Free net encyclopedia
Integrase is an enzyme produced by a virus that enables genetic material that is helpful to the virus, proviral DNA, to be integrated into the DNA of the infected cell. It is a key component in the pre-integration complex (PIC). Essentially, Integrase allows viral DNA to become a perminent member of the host genome, thus providing it a free ride in duplication of its own genome by tagging onto that of the host.
HIV integrase is a 32 kDa protein produced from the C-terminal portion of the Pol gene product. The integrase protein contains three domains: an N-terminal HH-CC zinc finger domain believed to be partially responsible for multimerization, a central catalytic domain and an C-terminal DNA binding domain. Integrase is responsible for the integration of proviral DNA into the host genome, which is essential for HIV replication. Integrase, therefore, is an attractive potential target for new anti-HIV therapeutics. In November 2005, data from a phase 2 study of an investigational HIV integrase inhibitor, MK-0518, demonstrated that the compound had potent antiviral activity, and the manufacturer, Merck, is undertaking further clinical studies.
Reference
Morales-Ramirez JO, Teppler H, Kovacs C, et al. Antiretroviral effect of MK-0518, a novel HIV-1 integrase inhibitor, in ART-naïve HIV-1 infected patients. Program and abstracts of the 10th European AIDS Conference; November 17-20, 2005; Dublin, Ireland. Abstract LBPS1/6. Online summary: http://clinicaloptions.com/HIV/Conference%20Coverage/Dublin%202005/Capsules/LBPS1-6.aspx
See also: retrovirusfr:Intégrase