New Model of HIV 1 virus Shell structure by University of Alberta Scientists
According to the new study done by the University of Alberta scientists, the matrix shell of the HIV-1 virus may have a different shape than previously thought. The newly proposed model could help to understand how the virus functions.
The research proposes that the HIV-1 virus is housed inside a spherical matrix shell. As the virus infects the cell, the spherical matrix fuses with the periphery of the healthy cell followed by the release of viral capsid into the cell.
Sean Graves, co-author of this research and instructor at the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences said the proposed structure of the HIV-1 virus consists of a specific shape, looks like the petals of a flower. More studies on the matrix shell could help to understand the infection and fusing process of the HIV-1 virus.
The previously reported model of the HIV-1 virus shell structure was mathematically impossible and a viable alternative was required. It’s difficult to predict at this moment if the new model could help develop new treatments for HIV, but it will definitely help the researchers to understand and anticipate the
behavior of the HIV-1 virus. There are approximately 38 million people suffering from AIDS or HIV around the world.Once the model is verified, the researchers are planning to start the study on preventing the entry of HIV-1 virus to the cell using the model. Marcelo Marcet-Palacios,the co-author and his team at the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry are using the mathematical principles said medications like the one that would cross-link the petals, preventing the opening and entry of viral particles to the cell could be developed.
The model is available online.
The new model was the result of the collaborative work of an interdisciplinary team from the fields of biology, computing science, and mathematics. Weijie Sun, a former student of Graves’ was also part of the research.
“It is incredible what can be achieved in science when experts from different disciplines get together and collaborate,” said Sun.
The paper, “Mathematical determination of the HIV-1 matrix shell structure and its impact on the biology of HIV-1,” was published in PLOS ONE
Author : Namitha
