RNA secondary structure and binding sites for gag gene products in the 5' packaging signal of human immunodeficiency virus type 1

The selective encapsidation of retroviral RNA requires sequences in the Gag protein, as well as a cis-acting RNA packaging signal (psi site) near the 5' end of the genomic transcript. Gag protein of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) has recently been found to bind specifically to the HIV-1 psi element in vitro. Here we report studies aimed at mapping features within the genetically defined psi locus that are required for binding of...