In fact this is the most conserved region in the HIV genome. If the primer binding site changes, then the virus cannot replicate in human cells. Targeting this site with a zinc finger fused to a repressor protein should stop viral replication. The CCR5 blockers would prevent the HIV from entering cells. The LTR binding fingers, if Barbas is successful in designing them, could prevent the virus from integrating into the host cell genome, and the primer binding site repressors could shut down replication.
Middle panel shows space filling model with backbone ribbon.
Bottom panel shows a partial space filling model of areas of contact with side chains shown as worms.