DNA-C + CN54ENV

DNA-C + CN54ENV is an HIV vaccine candidate that employs a prime-boost immunization strategy. The vaccine regimen consists of DNA-C priming followed by boosting with recombinant CN54 gp140 envelope protein. This approach aims to induce both cellular and humoral immune responses against HIV-1, particularly clade C. The DNA component is delivered using electroporation (EP) technology, which enhances the immune response by improving cellular uptake of the DNA vaccine. The vaccine has been studied with different administration routes, including intradermal (i.d.) and intramuscular (i.m.) injections[1]. Clinical studies have shown that combined intradermal and intramuscular immunization with DNA-C followed by CN54ENV protein boosting induces robust humoral responses. The vaccine primarily elicits IgG1 antibodies with lower levels of IgG3, suggesting a Th1-dominant immune profile. While the vaccine induces limited neutralizing antibody responses against certain HIV-1 isolates, it does generate antibodies capable of interacting with Fc receptors, which are associated with antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP)[1].