RNA affinity and specificity of modified aminoglycosides, metal complexes, and intercalating agents that target the HIV-1 rev response element (Immune deficiency)

RNA plays a pivotal role in the replication of all organisms, including viral and bacterial pathogens. The development of small molecules that can selectively interfere with undesired RNA activity is a promising new direction for drug design. Systematic studies of the binding interactions between small molecules and RNA are essential for deciphering the parameters that govern RNA recognition. The synthesis of new ligands with high RNA affinity is relatively easy compared to discovering new ligands with high specificity for the desired RNA target. The RRE affinity and specificity of every small molecule is not necessarily proportional to its anti-HIV activity. Issues related to cellular uptake, localization, and the non-specific binding of other cellular components can dramatically affect the biological activities of small molecules.