A pyrophosphatase activity associated with purified HIV-1 particles

► The paradox of ATP utilization, for AZT removal, by HIV-1 resistant RT. ► AZT-resistance mutations are not advantageous for in vitro reverse transcription. ► Flagged-pyrophosphatase is associated with HIV-1 viral-like particles. ► Viral particles devoided of cellular microvesicles exhibit pyrophosphatase activity. ► Low pyrophosphate during reverse transcription explains ATP-driven resistance.