Regulator of virion expression (Rev) protein (Rev)

The Regulator of virion expression (Rev) protein is a small (116 amino acid) regulatory protein encoded by the HIV-1 virus[1][2]. Rev is essential for HIV-1 replication because it mediates the nuclear export of unspliced and partially spliced viral mRNAs, which are necessary for the expression of structural proteins and genomic packaging[1][3][6][7]. Rev functions by binding to a structured RNA sequence in these transcripts known as the Rev response element (RRE), using an arginine-rich motif that also serves as a nuclear localization signal. Multiple Rev subunits assemble on the RRE to form a ribonucleoprotein complex that recruits the host cell nuclear export machinery, specifically the Crm1/Ran-GTP pathway, enabling the export of otherwise retained viral RNAs[2][3][5][8]. This activity is critical to the shift from early (regulatory) to late (structural) gene expression during the HIV-1 lifecycle. Rev protein activity and sequence vary among primary HIV isolates and are subject to functional modulation that may influence viral pathogenesis and immune evasion[5][6]. Rev is not an endogenous human protein, but has been a subject of basic research targeting approaches in HIV therapy[4][8].

Other names

RevHIV-1 Rev proteinRegulator of virion expressionRev transactivator proteinArt (historical)Trs (historical)

Experimental mechanisms (not approved therapeutics) include: - Inhibiting Rev binding to the Rev response element (RRE) on viral RNA - Disrupting the oligomerization of Rev - Blocking Rev-mediated nuclear export of viral mRNA[4][8]