Compositions and methods for the treatment of viral infections

Abstract

The invention provides compositions, kits and methods utilizing polypeptides having a viral alpha-helix heptad repeat domain in a stabilized α-helical structure (herein also referred to as SAH). The compositions are useful for treating and/or preventing viral infections. The invention is based, at least in part, on the result provided herein demonstrating that viral hydrocarbon stapled alpha helical peptides display excellent proteolytic, acid, and thermal stability, restore the native alpha-helical structure of the peptide, are highly effective in interfering with the viral fusogenic process, and possess superior pharmacokinetic properties compared to the corresponding unmodified peptides.

1 . A modified polypeptide comprising a stabilized alpha helix of HIV gp41 heptad repeat domain. 
     
     
         2 .- 61 . (canceled) 
     
     
         62 . A method for inhibiting transmission of HIV to a cell comprising contacting the virus in the presence of the cell with an effective dose of a modified polypeptide comprising a stabilized alpha helix of HIV gp41 heptad repeat domain, so that the infection of the cell by the virus is inhibited. 
     
     
         63 .- 70 . (canceled) 
     
     
         71 . A method for treating or delaying the onset of AIDS in an HIV infected individual, comprising administering to the individual an effective dose of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a modified polypeptide comprising a stabilized alpha helix of HIV gp41 heptad repeat domain. 
     
     
         72 .- 85 . (canceled)