METHOD FOR INHIBITING HIV-1 INFECTION, DRUG SCREENS, AND METHODS OF DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS OF SUSCEPTIBILITY TO HIV INFECTION

摘要

Novel β chemokine receptors that facilitate cellular entry of primary macrophage-tropic HIV-1 strains are described. CCR5 and CCR3 broadly facilitate entry of macrophage-tropic HIV-1 strains. A gp120 conformational binding site that is formed by the binding of gp120 and CD4 which permits binding of the complex to the chemokine receptors is also disclosed. Binding assays which permit the ready screening for molecules which affect the binding of gp120 and the chemokine are taught as well as specific targets for affecting the binding.