The Indian rupee gained seven paise to 45.17 rupees against the US dollar in early trade today, led by a higher opening in the stock market and weakness of the American currency against its major global rivals. The rupee had ended 12 paise lower at 45.25 against the US dollar in the previous session amid heavy dollar-selling by banks and importers. Forex dealers said in addition to dollar weakness against other Asian currencies and the euro overseas, a higher opening in the stock market also supported the rupee sentiment.