Feline Immunodeficiency Virus as a Vaccine Model

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a lentivirus-induced disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (Barre-Sinoussi et al, 1983; Gallo et al, 1984). HIV infection occurs worldwide and is a major threat to world health. There is, therefore, an urgent requirement for the development of effective vaccines to prevent the spread of the virus. However, there are many obstacles to the production of such a vaccine. Lentiviral infection is persistent despite the development of a vigorous immune response, there is no recovery from infection. Instead, disease almost inevitably occurs following a long latent period. Given these obstacles, it has been recognised that although vaccination may not protect completely against HIV infection, the onset of the clinical signs which result from infection may be prevented or at least delayed.