Lenacapavir HIV Capsid Inhibitor – First Long-Acting HIV Drug

Context

Lenacapavir, the world’s first long-acting HIV capsid inhibitor, confirmed that the HIV capsid is a stable and reliable drug target. (Page 6)

What is Capsid?

(Page 7 diagram shows capsid as a protein shell enclosing viral genetic material.)

Capsid = Protein shell around virus protecting its RNA.

Why Discovery Matters

1. Capsid is Essential
   If mutated heavily → Virus weakens or dies.
   
2. Resistance Slower
   Earlier drugs faced rapid resistance.
   Capsid mutations damage virus → Harder to resist.
   
3. New Drug Class
   Opens path for capsid-targeting medicines.
   
4. Long-Acting Treatment
   Lenacapavir injection once every six months.
   

What is HIV?

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus
• Attacks CD4 cells (immune system)

Transmission

• Mother to child (pregnancy/birth/breastfeeding)
• Infected blood transfusion
• Sharing needles
• Unprotected intimate contact
• Not spread by casual contact