Identification of Globotriaosylceramide as a Promoter of HIV-1 Entry into Cells
Description of Invention:
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It has been noted that human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) enters permissive cells by binding to the cellular receptor, CD4, and chemokine receptors specific for the envelope glycoprotein (gp120-g41) of a given HIV-1 isolate, followed by gp120-gp41 mediated fusion of the viral and target cell membranes. The subject invention relates to the discovery of glycosphingolipid cofactors which are essential for entry of a broad range of HIV-1 isolates into cells expressing CD4 and appropriate chemokine receptors. The invention provides for diagnostics, prophylactics, therapeutics, and methods of use for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection and/or AIDS.
Inventors:
Robert Blumenthal Anu Puri Peter Jug (NCI)
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-006-1999/0 Licensing Status: This technology is no longer available for licensing.
For Additional Information Please Contact: Sally Hu PhD MBA
NIH Office of Technology Transfer
6011 Executive Blvd, Suite 325
Rockville, MD 20852-3804
Phone: (301) 435-5606
Email: hus@mail.nih.gov
Fax: (301) 402-0220
