Enfuvirtide exerts its anti-HIV effect through which molecular target?
- A gp120 binding to the CD4 receptor
- B gp41-mediated fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane ✓
- C The CXCR4 chemokine co-receptor
- D The viral protease dimer interface
Correct answer: B. gp41-mediated fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane
Explanation
Enfuvirtide is a 36-amino-acid synthetic peptide mimicking a segment of gp41. After gp120 binds CD4 and a co-receptor, gp41 undergoes a conformational change exposing HR1; enfuvirtide binds HR1, preventing formation of the six-helix bundle needed for membrane fusion. Maraviroc targets CCR5 and ibalizumab targets CD4 domain 2, so those options describe different entry inhibitors. It is given subcutaneously twice daily because peptides are orally inactive.
Reference: Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 14th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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