Vif (Virion Infectivity Factor)

Vif (Virion Infectivity Factor) is a protein produced by HIV that helps the virus infect new cells. It works by targeting and disabling a human protein called APOBEC3G, which naturally tries to stop HIV from copying itself effectively. Without Vif, APOBEC3G would interfere with the virus's ability to reproduce, making the infections less successful. Essentially, Vif acts as a countermeasure, enabling HIV to evade this natural defense and improve its chances of spreading within the body.