Inhibition of HIV-1 replication by a Tat RNA-binding domain peptide analog

A synthetic peptide that may block HIV reproduction is described. The peptide, called Tat10-biotin, resembles the HIV Tat protein. This protein binds to viral RNA and begins the viral reproductive process. Tat10-biotin can also bind to viral RNA and block viral reproduction. The peptide inhibited HIV reproduction in cell culture and also suppressed the production of the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase, which is required for viral reproduction.