Low-molecular-weight anti-HIV-1 peptides from the amino-terminal sequence of RANTES: possible lead compounds for coreceptor-directed anti-HIV-1 agents

A series of small peptides corresponding to the amino-terminal sequence of RANTES were synthesized, and their anti-HIV-1 activity was evaluated. Pentapeptides, H-(10Ala-RANTES 6-10)-OH and Ac-(10Ala-RANTES 6-10)-NH2, were the smallest anti-HIV-1 peptides so far developed, and would be potentially important lead compounds for coreceptor-directed anti-HIV-1 drugs.