Use of Synthetic Peptides Anti-Idiotypes for Controlling Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Abstract

Abstract : We are examining the correlation between the presence of antibodies in sera which recognize synthetic peptides whose sequences correspond to the principal neutralizing determinant of HIV-1 and the ability of these sera to neutralize homologous HIV-1 isolates in vitro. Sera from infected individuals from the United States and Tanzania were examined. Our data indicates that there is no strong correlation between the presence of anti-V3 antibodies in human sera and viral neutralizing activity. In addition, in composite peptide representing conserved regions within the V3 loop of HIV-1 gp 120 has been produced and is currently being used to generate monoclonal and polyclonal anti- peptide antibodies in mice and rabbits, respectively. These antibodies are being tested for their ability to recognize, and neutralize a panel of HIV-1 isolates. Recent reports indicate, that regional isolates of HIV-1 may be present throughout the world. Differences in epidemiologic patterns suggest that these, isolates may differ in their levels of virulence. We are therefore isolating primary HIV-l isolates from infected individuals from the United States and Tanzania. We currently have 12 primary isolates from the United States and 2 from Tanzania. These HIV-1 isolates will be tested for differences in cell culture characteristics as well iis for phenotypic differences. Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Synthetic peptides, Geographically diverse populations, Chimpanzees, RAI, Antibodies