CD4+ T cell-mimicking nanoparticles encapsulating DIABLO/SMAC mimetics broadly neutralize HIV-1 and selectively kill HIV-1-infected cells

Summary

This study investigated whether nanoparticles coated with CD4+ T cell membranes and loaded with DIABLO/SMAC mimetics could neutralize HIV-1 and kill infected cells. The nanoparticles neutralized all tested HIV-1 strains and selectively induced autophagy-dependent apoptosis in HIV-1-infected CD4+ T cells and macrophages, without toxicity to uninfected cells. These findings suggest a promising approach for HIV-1 cure by simultaneously neutralizing free virus and eliminating infected cells.