HIV-1 Vpu protein forms stable oligomers in aqueous solution via its transmembrane domain self-association.

We report our findings on the assembly of the HIV-1 protein Vpu into soluble oligomers. Vpu is a key HIV-1 protein. It has been considered exclusively a single-pass membrane protein.

HIV-1 Vpu protein forms stable oligomers in aqueous solution via its transmembrane domain self-association.

We report our findings on the assembly of the HIV-1 protein Vpu into soluble oligomers. Vpu is a key to HIV-1 protein. It has been considered exclusively a single-pass membrane protein.

Insights into the oligomeric structure of the HIV-1 Vpu protein.

The HIV-1-encoded protein Vpu forms an oligomeric ion channel/pore in membranes and interacts with host proteins to support the virus lifecycle. However, Vpu molecular mechanisms are currently not well understood. Here, we report on the Vpu oligomeric organization under membrane and aqueous conditions and provide insights into how the Vpu environment affects the oligomer formation.