gp120/CD4

gp120/CD4 inhibitors block binding between the HIV envelope glycoprotein gp120 and the CD4 receptor on host cells. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enters T cells when gp120 binds CD4 and then a co-receptor, which triggers membrane fusion. Attachment inhibitors bind gp120 and hold it in a shape that cannot engage CD4, while other compounds target CD4 or mimic its binding site. Compounds in this category are used in laboratory studies of viral entry and envelope protein structure.