Nef protein

Nef is a protein produced by HIV that helps the virus survive and spread within the body. It does this by manipulating the infected cell's machinery, reducing the presence of immune system markers on the cell surface, and increasing the cell’s ability to infect others. Nef also enhances viral replication and prevents infected cells from dying prematurely, allowing the virus to persist longer. Overall, Nef acts as a tool that HIV uses to evade immune defenses and establish persistent infection, making it a key factor in the progression of HIV/AIDS.