Host factors that regulate the intercellular dynamics of HIV-1 genome during the early phase of infection

Abstract

An interplay or battle between virus and its host has been observed within a single cell. Upon an infection with retroviruses including human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), the viral genome is subjected to several processes that include uncoating, reverse transcription of the viral genomic RNA into a cDNA copy, transport of this cDNA into the nucleus, and integration of the cDNA into the host chromosome. Antiretroviral restriction factors such as TRIM5α and APOBEC3G have been recently identified. In addition, nuclear membrane protect host chromosomal DNA against incoming viral genome. For successful retroviral infection, viral genome must overcome these cellular barriers to establish proviral state, in which viral cDNA was stably integrated into host chromosomal DNA. In this review, I would summarize the host factors that regulate the intercellular dynamics of HIV-1 genome during the early phase of infection, especially focusing on factors interacting with HIV-1 integrase and the preintegration complex.