Lessons learned from natural infection: focusing on the design of protective T cell vaccines for HIV/AIDS.
CD8(+) cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses are crucial in establishing the control of persistent virus infections. Population studies of HIV-1-infected individuals suggest that CD8(+) CTL responses targeting epitopes that take the greatest toll on virus replication are instrumental in immune control. A major question for vaccine design is whether incorporating epitopes responsible for controlling a persistent virus will translate into protection from natural infection or serve solely as a fail-safe mechanism to prevent overt disease in infected individuals. Here, we discuss qualitative parameters of the CD8(+) CTL response and mechanisms operative in the control of persistent virus infections and suggest new strategies for design and delivery of HIV vaccines.
Ahlers
Jeffrey D
JD
NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA. jahlers@niaid.nih.gov
Belyakov
Igor M
IM
D016915:AIDS Vaccines / Q000276:immunology*; D000818:Animals; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D018928:Immunity, Mucosal / Q000276:immunology; D013602:T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / Q000276:immunology*
D016915:AIDS Vaccines