HIV envelope glycoprotein

HIV envelope glycoproteins are specialized proteins on the surface of the HIV virus. They play a key role in the virus's ability to infect human cells. These glycoproteins, mainly gp120 and gp41, help the virus attach to and fuse with target cells, like those in the immune system. Once attached, they facilitate entry of the virus's genetic material into the cell, leading to infection. Understanding these proteins is essential for developing vaccines and treatments, as they are major targets for immune responses and antiretroviral drugs.