Global Protein Sequence Variation in HIV-1-B Isolates Derived from Human Blood and Brain

The first part of this chapter introduces the proteins encoded by HIV-1. Their consensus sequences, structures, and functions are discussed. Amino acid sequence variations due to different selective pressures that drive the evolution of HIV-1 including compartmentalization and geographical variations are addressed. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis are used to identify conserved as well as variable regions of HIV-1-B isolates derived from human blood and brain. These signature sequences may have a significant impact on future vaccine design and development.