Enfuvirtide
Synthetic HIV type 1 fusion inhibitor peptide
Research material. Not for human or animal consumption.
Research overview
Enfuvirtide (T-20, Fuzeon) was the first HIV fusion inhibitor. It is a 36-amino-acid peptide copied from the HR2 region of the viral envelope protein gp41. By binding gp41's HR1 region, it stops the protein folding into the hairpin shape that pulls viral and cell membranes together, so the virus cannot enter. The TORO 1 and TORO 2 trials in treatment-experienced patients showed better viral suppression when it was added to an optimised regimen. Twice-daily injections and injection-site reactions limited its use.
An authorisation applies to at least one defined finished product in a stated jurisdiction; it does not apply automatically to this catalogue material.
Questions about Enfuvirtide
PRODUCT QUESTIONSWhat is Enfuvirtide?
Enfuvirtide is a 36 residue synthetic peptide with an acetylated N terminus and amidated C terminus. Its sequence comes from the heptad repeat 2 region of the HIV type 1 transmembrane protein gp41.
What research has been published on Enfuvirtide?
The TORO trials found larger falls in viral load and greater CD4 count gains when enfuvirtide was added to optimised background therapy. Resistance studies mapped substitutions in the gp41 HR1 region that reduce binding. Enfuvirtide also became a model for designing longer acting fusion inhibitor peptides.
What batch documentation should accompany Enfuvirtide?
Enfuvirtide: Ask for the COA and analytical reports for the batch being quoted. Enfuvirtide's size makes synthesis demanding, so request mass spectrometry, HPLC purity with a list of deletion and truncation impurities, peptide content and confirmation of both terminal modifications.
How should Enfuvirtide storage conditions be assessed?
Store lyophilised Enfuvirtide sealed at room temperature or refrigerated, as its finished product is, and protect it from moisture. Once dissolved it should be kept cold and used promptly.