HIV Capsid Evolves into Molecular Transporter to Breach Cell Nucleus

Discovery of HIV's 'secret handshake' could lead to improved AIDS therapies

Scientists have discovered how HIV smuggles its genetic material into the cell nucleus, a crucial step in its replication process.
The HIV capsid, a protective protein coat, has evolved into a molecular transporter that can breach the nuclear envelope, a barrier that normally protects the cell nucleus against viral invaders.
Despite being larger than molecules that typically pass through the nuclear pores, the HIV capsid can enter the nuclear transport channels without the help of chaperone proteins.
The capsid's ability to mimic the 'secret handshake' of chaperone proteins allows it to bypass the cell's protective mechanisms and enter the nucleus.
Understanding this process could potentially lead to the development of better AIDS therapies.