Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) were utilized to
express Rev-binding sequences inside the nucleolus and
to test whether they are substrates for Rev binding and
transport. We show that U16 snoRNA containing the minimal
binding site for Rev stably accumulates inside the nucleolus
maintaining the interaction with the basic C/D snoRNA-specific
factors. Upon Rev expression, the chimeric RNA is exported
to the cytoplasm, where it remains bound to Rev in a particle
devoid of snoRNP-specific factors. These data indicate that
Rev can elicit the functions of RNA binding and transport
inside the nucleolus.