| abstract |
The invention relates to chimeric molecules comprising a virus coat sequence and a receptor sequence that can inter-act with each other to form a complex that is capable of binding a co-receptor. Such chimeric molecules therefore exhibit functional properties characteristic of a receptor-coat protein complex and are useful as agents that inhibit virus infection of cells due to occupancy of a co-receptor present on the cell. In particular aspects, the chimeric polypeptide includes an immunodeficiency virus envelope polypeptide, such as that of HN , SN, FIV, FeL V, FPV and herpes virus. Receptor sequences suitable for use in a chimeric polypeptide include, for example, CD4 DID2 and CD4M9 sequences. |