APOBEC3G

APOBEC3G is a cytidine deaminase that is part of the APOBEC protein family. It is encoded by the APOBEC3G gene in humans. APOBEC3G has been recognized for its role in inhibiting the replication of retroviruses, including HIV.

Function

APOBEC3G is a member of the APOBEC family of proteins, which are involved in the innate immune response. It functions by deaminating cytidine residues in single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), resulting in the mutation of the viral genome and preventing its replication. This process is known as viral restriction.

Role in HIV Infection

In the context of HIV infection, APOBEC3G is packaged into virions and during the reverse transcription process, it deaminates cytidine residues in the minus-strand DNA. This results in the mutation of the viral genome and inhibits its replication. However, HIV has evolved a protein called Vif (Viral infectivity factor) that can counteract the effects of APOBEC3G.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the function of APOBEC3G and its interaction with HIV has potential implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies against HIV. In addition, mutations in the APOBEC3G gene have been associated with an increased risk of autoimmune diseases and cancer.

See Also

• APOBEC3F
• APOBEC3H
• Vif