Neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1: can we elicit them with vaccines and how much do we need?

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

This review describes some of the major obstacles that have impeded progress in the development of an effective neutralizing antibody-based HIV-1 vaccine and explains why it may be possible to overcome these obstacles. A renewed interest in the B-cell response in HIV-1-infected individuals is emphasized.

Recent findings

New assay technologies and access to large numbers of clinical specimens have permitted a detailed assessment of the neutralizing antibody response in HIV-1-infected individuals. Recent studies have demonstrated that B cells can be stimulated to generate high titers of broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies against multiple genetic subtypes of the virus. Preliminary evidence suggests that some of these antibodies are directed against

SUBMITTER: Montefiori DC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2879149 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature