Which of the following binds to viral envelope glycoprotein preventing the conformational changes required for the fusion of viral and Cellular membranes
First, I need to recall different antiviral drugs and their mechanisms. Viral entry into host cells involves several steps: attachment, fusion (which requires conformational changes in the viral glycoprotein), and then entry. Some antivirals target these steps. For example, fusion inhibitors like Enfuvirtide (T-20) are used in HIV treatment. They bind to the gp41 envelope protein, preventing the conformational changes needed for the virus and cell membranes to fuse.
Now, looking at the options, the correct answer should be Enfuvirtide. Let me check the other options. Maraviroc is a CCR5 antagonist, blocking the co-receptor. Nelfinavir is a protease inhibitor, which works after entry by preventing viral protein maturation. Acyclovir is a nucleoside analog that inhibits viral DNA synthesis. So none of these other drugs target the glycoprotein conformation directly.
The clinical pearl here is that fusion inhibitors are a specific class of antiretrovirals for HIV, targeting the envelope proteins. Students should remember that Enfuvirtide is the drug that works this way.
**Core Concept**
This question tests understanding of **HIV antiretroviral therapy** mechanisms, specifically **fusion inhibitors**. Viral entry into host cells requires envelope glycoprotein-mediated membrane fusion, which is a key target for antiviral drugs.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
**Enfuvirtide (T-20)** is a **fusion inhibitor** that binds to the **gp41** subunit of HIV envelope glycoprotein. This binding prevents the **conformational changes** necessary for the viral and cellular membranes to merge, blocking HIV entry into CD4+ T cells. It acts post-attachment but pre-fusion, making it distinct from entry inhibitors like CCR5 antagonists.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** *Maraviroc* is a **CCR5 receptor antagonist**, blocking HIV entry by preventing interaction with the co-receptor, not glycoprotein conformation.
**Option B:** *Nelfinavir* is a **protease inhibitor**, targeting viral polyprotein cleavage, not membrane fusion.
**Option C:** *Acyclovir* is a **nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)**, acting after viral entry to inhibit DNA synthesis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Enfuvirtide is administered **subcutaneously** and is reserved for multidrug-resistant HIV due to its **parenteral route** and **high resistance potential**. Remember: **fusion inhibitors** target the **gp41** protein, while **CCR5 antagonists** target the **co-receptor**.
**Correct Answer: D. Enfuvirtide**