Immunization with HIV-1 envelope T20-encoding DNA vaccines elicits cross-clade neutralizing antibody responses

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Genetic immunization aims to express antigens in a native form for presentation on MHC molecules, mimicking viral infections.
• Enfuvirtide (T20), an HIV peptide with antiviral properties, was investigated for its potential to boost immune responses against HIV antigens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the immunogenic potential of enfuvirtide (T20) in enhancing immune responses to HIV antigens.
• To evaluate different DNA vector constructs for expressing T20 and its effect on immune induction.

Main Methods:

• The T20 sequence was cloned into conventional plasmids, minicircle constructs, and a replicon plasmid.
• Three conventional plasmids expressing HIV-1 envelope subtypes A, B, and C, incorporating T20 in gp41, were also tested.

Main Results:

• All tested combinations induced HIV-specific antibodies and cellular responses.
• The inclusion of T20, as a peptide or expression cassette, enhanced antibody responses.
• The highest anti-HIV-1 Env titers were achieved using the replicon T20 construct.

Conclusions:

• The antiretroviral T20 sequence can serve as an immunogen to generate binding and neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1.
• Modified T20 sequences can be utilized as priming or boosting agents for inducing broadly neutralizing anti-HIV antibodies.
• Further studies are needed to determine the optimal administration method for T20.