CD 26--to be or not to be a cofactor for CD 4 receptor of human immunodeficiency viruses.

Earlier work has shown that HIV binding to CD 4 is necessary, but apparently not sufficient, for viral entry into cells. Several molecules have been proposed as potential candidates for coreceptors in HIV infection. Remarkable attention and criticism was raised by the report of Hovanessian group from Pasteur Institute, France, which claimed the role of CD 26, an enzyme also known as dipeptidyl peptidase IV, as cofactor in HIV entry and HIV infection. Present review mentions some reports which support or reject this hypothesis.