The Env protein (gp160), embedded in the viral envelope, plays a pivotal role in the process that permits entry of HIV into a host cell. The gp120 moiety of Env binds to the cellular CD4 receptor and subsequently, the cellular chemokine co-receptors CCR5 or CXCR4. The gp41 moiety then forces viral and cellular membranes to fuse. Hence, compounds that bind gp120 or gp41 can prevent target cells from being infected. Currently, one peptide entry inhibitor is commercially available.



Tibotec is focused on designing potent entry inhibitors based on a keen understanding of the entry process.