Using powerful tools and techniques developed in the field of structural biology, researchers at the University of Washington and The Scripps Research Institute have discovered new details about the human immunodeficiency virus, HIV. The findings bring into focus the basic architecture of the virus just above and below its surface and may help in the design and development of a vaccine that can protect against AIDS.
These detailed findings include 3D views of the structure and position of the virus’ envelope “spike” proteins (the Env protein, used when the virus binds with cells) in the context of the full virus.
