We are studying the impact of mutations and small molecule inhibitors that modulate RT subunit interaction on enzyme function and HIV-1 replication.
Our studies on the molecular determinants of RT dimerization have identified a region in the RT that is critical for RT dimerization, enzyme function and virion RT maturation.
Using the yeast two-hybrid system we have found that nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) can enhance RT dimerization, which may contribute in part to the inhibitory effect of these drugs.
We are also studying the role of the reverse transcriptase embedded in Gag-Pol on activation of the HIV protease and Gag-Pol processing leading to the production of infectious HIV particles and the role of host cell factors in this process.
Publications
2008
2006
2005
2003
2001
2000