Algal Lectins for Potential Prevention of HIV Transmission

A number of lectins that bind high-mannose carbohydrates on the surface of the envelopes of virus has been found to have antiviral activity. In particular, some algal lectins such as Cyanovirin-N, Microcystis viridis lectin, Scytovirin, Griffithsin and Oscillatoria agardhii agglutinin, exhibit high anti-HIV activity, and provide an alternative route to prevention of HIV transmission. This review focuses on the structural property, antiviral activity and possible mechanism of these lectins, and future challenges for potential prophylactic or therapeutic applications are also discussed.