CCR5 antagonists: a new tool in fighting HIV.

Abstract

Chemokine receptors are essential for cell entry by HIV. The two chemokine receptors most relevant to this process are CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) and CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) since a delayed onset of disease can be achieved by inhibition of either receptor. Therefore, chemokine receptor antagonists, in particular inhibitors of CCR5, represent a promising new class of anti-HIV agents. In this review, we summarise current drug candidates, give an insight into how they interact with CCR5, and discuss requirements and restrictions for these compounds.