Human immunodeficiency virus vaccines: Advances, challenges and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Vaccinology
• Virology

Background:

• Developing a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine has been a 40-year challenge.
• The virus's rapid mutation rate hinders immune system evasion, slowing vaccine development.
• Previous trials like RV144 showed limited protection, while Imbokodo and Mosaico demonstrated safety without efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the progress in HIV vaccine development.
• To examine promising new strategies for an effective HIV vaccine.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical HIV vaccine research and clinical trials (e.g., RV144, Imbokodo, Mosaico).
• Analysis of emerging technologies such as mRNA vaccines, broadly neutralizing antibodies, mosaic antigens, and germline-targeting techniques.

Main Results:

• Despite extensive efforts, a fully effective HIV vaccine remains elusive.
• Current advanced vaccine candidates utilize novel approaches like mosaic antigens and germline targeting.
• mRNA vaccines and broadly neutralizing antibodies show potential in ongoing research.

Conclusions:

• The rapid mutation of HIV continues to be a primary obstacle.
• New strategies like mosaic antigens and germline-targeting offer hope for future HIV vaccine development.
• Continued research into advanced technologies is crucial for achieving an efficacious HIV vaccine.