Complete inactivation of HIV-1 using photo-labeled non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

We demonstrate that a photo-labeled derivative of the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) dapivirine termed DAPY, when used together with exposure to ultraviolet light, was able to completely and irreversibly inactivate both HIV-1 RT activity as well as infectiousness in each of a T cell line and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Control experiments using various concentrations of DAPY revealed that a combination of exposure to ultraviolet light together with use of the specific, high affinity photo-labeled compound was necessary for complete inactivation to occur. This method of HIV RT inactivation may have applicability toward preservation of an intact viral structure and warrants further investigation in regard to the potential of this approach to elicit a durable, broad protective immune response.

Research highlights▶ The method described can yield complete inactivation of the infectiousness of HIV-1. ▶ This method holds potential for development of a HIV vaccine. ▶ Further studies that relate to the immunogenicity of the inactivated viral particles is now necessary.