Immunogenicity of HIV-lLAi gpl60 and env peptides in squirrel monkey <em>Saimiri sciureus</em> using alumine and experimental adjuvants.

Since the identification of the HIV virus, important advances have been achieved in the definition of potential subunit vaccines. We investigated the immunogenicity of a recombinant gpl60 antigen and of two gp41 peptides from HIV-lLAI associated with seven different adjuvant formulations in squirrel monkeys. All animals were immunized twice with gpl60 and then with a gp4l peptide using the same formulation. All adjuvants used led to a subsequent antibody response against gpl60, and 55% of the animals immunized developed anti-gpl60 antibodies that could neutralize the virus in vitro. Specific anti-gp41 antibody response was also observed. Results obtained underlined the key role of the adjuvant formulation in the antibody response against a given part of the immunogen, and indicate that such immunogenicity-related investigation can be carried out conveniently in the squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]