Maraviroc, a CCR5 coreceptor antagonist that blocks entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1

Joshua S. Hunt, Frank Romanelli

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

Inhibition of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) coreceptor is an encouraging new approach to pharmacotherapy against HIV. The HIV-1 strain makes use of either the CCR5 or the CXCR4 coreceptor to gain access into host CD4 + cells. Maraviroc, the first HIV-1 CCR5 coreceptor antagonist, blocks entry of HIV-1. This recently approved drug has demonstrated clinically significant decreases in plasma concentrations of HIV-1 RNA and increases in CD4 + cell counts; however, it is indicated only for use as salvage therapy. Drug resistance is a concern, as is selective pressure on viral coreceptor use, because viral coreceptor targets may switch as disease progresses. In addition, before maraviroc therapy can be started, costly assays are required to determine the host's viral coreceptor tropism. Emerging therapies targeting CXCR4, the other HIV coreceptor, have shown promise in decreasing plasma concentrations of HIV-1 RNA. Long-term studies with both targets are required to explore the critical issues of efficacy and immunologic safety, as the function of these coreceptors is linked to host chemokine pathways.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)295-304
Number of pages10
JournalPharmacotherapy
Volume29
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2009

Keywords

  • AIDS
  • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
  • Coreceptor antagonism
  • Coreceptors
  • HIV
  • Human immunodeficiency virus
  • Maraviroc

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology (medical)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Maraviroc, a CCR5 coreceptor antagonist that blocks entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this