Inhibitors of HIV-1 entry.

Since the discovery of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as a causative agent of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) various strategies were employed to counter its devastating actions. One such concept relies on the prevention of HIV entry into host's "competent" cells by means of compounds known as entry inhibitors. HIV entry inhibitors comprise a group of immensely diverse compounds ranging from proteins/antibodies to small organic molecules and capable of targeting various stages of viral entry. Although already in clinical use, this approach to HIV therapy is still being investigated to produce new promising antiviral compounds. Here, we review the latest advances in this area.