Validation and characterisation of novel cellular ligands of membrane-associated HIV-1 Nef

AuszugThe acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) was first described in 1981 by Gottlieb (Gottlieb, Schroff et al. 1981). Studies by several groups ((Barre-Sinoussi, Chermann et al. 1983), (Gallo, Sarin et al. 1983)) identified a novel retrovirus as the causative agent, which was soon after termed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (Coffin, Haase et al. 1986). HIV belongs to the family of retroviruses (Retroviridiae) and the genus of lentiviruses (Lentiviridiae), of which up to now two species (HIV-1 and HIV-2) are known. Based on differences in the genomic sequences they can be further divided into subcategories. In comparison to HIV-2, HIV-1 displays a higher virulence and infectivity. Along with the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), HIV forms the primate lentivirus group.