Hiv protease inhibitors

Group of protease inhibitors that inhibit the viral protease of HI viruses and are used for the treatment of HIV infections.

HIV protease is an enzyme that plays an essential role in the genesis of new HI viruses. The HIV protease catalyses the cleavage of precursor molecules, which is a prerequisite for the reproduction and spread of the HI virus. HIV protease inhibitors (see also protease inhibitors in general) are modelled on the viral protease and differ only minimally from their models in certain amino acid sequences. The inhibitors occupy the protease binding site on the substrate (precursor protein) and thus interfere with the further processes in protein formation. As a result, incorrect virus components are generated, which leads to an interruption of the replication cycle.

1. Eron JJ JR (2002) HIV-1 protease inhibitors. Clin Infect Dis 30: 160-170