Host cell membrane {By
Similarity}; Lipid-anchor {By
Similarity}; Cytoplasmic side {By
Similarity}. Host cytoplasm, host perinuclear region {By
Similarity}. Virion {By
Similarity}. Secreted. Note=Predominantly found in the paranuclear area, probably in the TGN. Correct localization requires PACS1. Also associates with the inner plasma membrane through its N-terminal domain. Nef stimulates its own export via the release of exosomes. Also incorporated in virions at a rate of about 10 molecules per virion, where it is cleaved (By similarity). {By
Similarity}.
The host perinuclear region is the host cytoplasmic region just around the host nucleus. Note: This location is defined for viral proteins that appear in the perinuclear region of infected host cells
Factor of infectivity and pathogenicity, required for optimal virus replication. Alters numerous pathways of T-lymphocyte function and down-regulates immunity surface molecules in order to evade host defense and increase viral infectivity. Alters the functionality of other immunity cells, like dendritic cells, monocytes/macrophages and NK cells. One of the earliest and most abundantly expressed viral proteins (By similarity). {By
Similarity}. In infected CD4(+) T-lymphocytes, down-regulates the surface MHC-I, mature MHC-II, CD4, CD28 and probably other immunity surface molecules. In consequence infected cells are masked for immune recognition by cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Decreasing the number of immune receptors also prevents reinfection by more HIV particles (superinfection). Bypasses host T-cell signaling by inducing a transcriptional program nearly identical to that of anti-CD3 cell activation. Interaction with TCR-zeta chain up-regulates the Fas ligand (FasL). Increasing surface FasL molecules and decreasing surface MHC-I molecules on infected CD4(+) cells send attacking cytotoxic CD8+ T- lymphocytes into apoptosis (By similarity). {By
Similarity}. Plays a role in optimizing the host cell environment for viral replication without causing cell death by apoptosis. Protects the infected cells from apoptosis in order to keep them alive until the next virus generation is ready to strike (By similarity). {By
Similarity}.
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Department of Biology
Biophysics & Bioinformatics Laboratory