The HIV env gene encodes envelope proteins that are cleaved into which mature products?

The HIV env gene encodes envelope proteins that are cleaved into which mature products?

• A. gp160
• B. gp120
• C. gp120 and gp41
• D. gp41

Answer: (C)

HIV envelope proteins are made as a single gp160 precursor that is cleaved by host proteases in the secretory pathway. This cleavage yields two mature subunits: gp120, the external subunit that binds CD4 (and a coreceptor), and gp41, the transmembrane subunit that anchors the spike and mediates membrane fusion. In the mature virion, gp120 and gp41 stay together as a functional gp120/gp41 complex. So the mature products are gp120 and gp41.

HIV envelope proteins are made as a single gp160 precursor that is cleaved by host proteases in the secretory pathway. This cleavage yields two mature subunits: gp120, the external subunit that binds CD4 (and a coreceptor), and gp41, the transmembrane subunit that anchors the spike and mediates membrane fusion. In the mature virion, gp120 and gp41 stay together as a functional gp120/gp41 complex. So the mature products are gp120 and gp41.