Viral protein R (Vpr), one of the human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1) accessory proteins, contributes to multiple cytopathic effects, Q, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The mechanisms of Vpr have been intensely studied because it is believed that they underlie HIV-1 pathogenesis. We here report a cell-based small molecule screen on Vpr induced cell death in the context of HIV-1 infection. From the screen of 504 bioactive compounds, we identified damnacanthal (Dam), a component of noni fruit, as an inhibitor of Vpr induced cell death. Our studies illustrate a novel efficient platform for drug discovery and development in anti-HIV therapy which should also be applicable to other viruses. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.