First-in-Class HIV Capsid Inhibitor

The HIV capsid forms a conical structure that encapsulates the viral genome and several proteins. The capsid, which is composed of multiple protein subunits, plays a critical role in the HIV replication.

Now, a series of studies conducted largely by industry investigators has evaluated the antiviral activity of a long-acting agent, GS-6207, that binds at the interface between capsid protein subunits and interferes with the function of the HIV capsid. GS-6207 potently inhibits in vitro replication of multiple HIV isolates, including variants resistant to current antiretroviral medications.

In a study of healthy participants, a single subcutaneous injection produced GS-6207 levels that exceeded the concentration needed to inhibit HIV for >24 we…