Question

What are functions of GBP5?

How does GBP5 control viral replication?

Answer 1

GBP5 gene is a member of the TRAFAC class dynamin-like GTPase superfamily.The protein encoded by this gene acts as an activator of NLRP3 assembly of the inflammasome and has a pivotal role in inflammation and immunity.

Here is an illustration of Hiv virus replication control :

Firstly, GBP5 is being expressed in the primary target cells of HIV-1, the place where it reduces viral infectivity by interfering with the processing and virion incorporation of the viral envelope glycoprotein. The level of GBP5 in macrophage determines their infectious HIV-1 yield. Level of GBP5 is inversely correlated with the infectious HIV-1 yield. Antiviral activity needs Golgi localization of GBP5, but its GTPase activity is not needed. GBP5 is an antiviral effector of the IFN response and this may explain the elevated frequency of defective vpu genes in primary HIV-1 strains.