HIV-1 RNA Dimerization: It Takes Two to Tango

Each viral particle of HIV-1, the infectious agent of AIDS, contains two copies of the full-lengthviral genomic RNA. Encapsidating two copies of genomic RNA is one of the characteristics of theretrovirus family. The two RNA molecules are both positive-sense and often identical; furthermore,each RNA encodes the full complement of genetic information required for viral replication. Thetwo strands of RNA are intricately entwined within the core of the mature infectious virus as aribonuclear complex with the viral proteins, including nucleocapsid. Multiple steps in the biogenesisof the genomic full-length RNA are involved in achieving this location and dimeric state.The viral sequences and proteins involved in the process of RNA dimerization, both for the initialinterstrand contact and subsequent steps that result in the condensed, stable conformation of thegenomic RNA, are outlined in this review. In addition, the impact of the dimeric state of HIV-1 viralRNA is discussed with respect to its importance in efficient viral replication and, consequently,the potential development of antiviral strategies designed to disrupt the formation of dimeric RNA.