HIV-1 Rev response element stem-loop IIB (RRE SLIIB)

The Rev response element stem-loop IIB (RRE SLIIB) is a highly structured RNA motif within the HIV-1 genome that serves as the primary high-affinity binding site for the viral Rev protein (NIH, 2015; Wikipedia). This interaction is essential for the nuclear export of unspliced and singly spliced viral mRNA transcripts, which are otherwise retained in the nucleus and degraded or over-spliced (NIH, 2015; ASM, 2014). By binding to RRE SLIIB, Rev initiates the assembly of a multimeric complex that recruits host export factors like CRM1 and RanGTP to transport the viral RNA to the cytoplasm for translation and virion assembly (MDPI, 2015; eLife, 2014). Because this pathway is critical for the production of viral structural proteins and the packaging of the viral genome, RRE SLIIB is a significant therapeutic target (NIH, 2015; Duke University, 2024). Small molecules, including aminoglycosides and various synthetic compounds, have been shown to bind RRE SLIIB and competitively inhibit Rev binding, thereby blocking viral replication (ResearchGate, 2001; ASM, 2008).

Other names

Rev response element IIB RNARRE-IIBRRE stem-loop IIBHigh-affinity Rev binding siteRRE SLIIB

Inhibition of the interaction between the viral Rev protein and the RRE RNA, preventing the nuclear export of unspliced and singly spliced viral mRNA transcripts.