HEXIM1 inter-monomer autoinhibition governs 7SK RNA binding specificity and P-TEFb inactivation

Hexim proteins are key RNA-dependent regulators of eukaryotic transcription through 7SK-dependent sequestration and inactivation of the kinase P-TEFb (Cdk9-CyclinT1/2) in the 7SK RNP. P-TEFb activity drives release of RNA polymerase II from promoter-proximal pausing for eukaryotic and HIV-1 transcription. The molecular mechanism by which 7SK binding overcomes an intrinsic Hexim autoinhibition for subsequent P-TEFb inactivation has remained unresolved. Here, using NMR and biophysical methods we demonstrate that Hexim1 homodimer engages two high-affinity sites on 7SK RNA. This dual-site binding triggers a conformational rearrangement in Hexim1's disordered central region that unmasks the Cdk9-binding site, which is otherwise sequestered within an inter-monomer dimer interface. These findings reveal how Hexim autoinhibition dictates its specificity for 7SK RNA and prevents premature P-TEFb inhibition in the absence of 7SK, thereby providing a mechanistic understanding of Hexim/P-TEFb assembly into the 7SK RNP and further considerations for understanding Hexim-Tat competition during viral transcription.