Saquinavir (shown in purple in this model) is a reversible competitive inhibitor of HIV-1 protease and was the first FDA approved HIV-1 protease inhibitor (1995). Protease inhibitors are antiretroviral drugs that act to inhibit the catalytic action of the HIV protease enzyme. HIV protease is used to cleave viral polyprotein precursors into mature proteins which is essential in the production of mature infectious HIV-1 virions which allows HIV infection to spread through your cells. Saquinavir is used to stop ongoing replication of the virus by inhibiting the catalytic action of HIV protease.
Saquinavir is most effective when used in combination with other drugs that target different stages of HIV-1 viral replication.
This model demonstrates the key interactions between HIV-1 protease and Saquinavir. The active site is clearly shown so you can see how Saquinavir fits into it and interacts with HIV-1 protease.
Comments