Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 circulating recombinant form 01_AE antigens (HIV-1 CRF01_AE antigens)

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) circulating recombinant form 01_AE (CRF01_AE) antigens are viral proteins derived from a specific recombinant strain of HIV-1 that is highly prevalent in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. These antigens, primarily including the envelope glycoproteins (gp120, gp140, or gp160) and internal structural proteins (Gag, Pol), serve as the primary targets for vaccine development and immunotherapy. The CRF01_AE clade gained significant prominence as the focus of the RV144 'Thai trial,' which provided the first evidence of modest vaccine efficacy in humans using a prime-boost regimen of ALVAC-HIV and AIDSVAX B/E. These antigens function by facilitating viral attachment to host CD4 receptors and CCR5/CXCR4 co-receptors, making them critical targets for neutralizing antibodies. In therapeutic contexts, they are used to elicit immune responses that can recognize and eliminate the virus or infected cells. However, the high genetic diversity and rapid mutation rate of the CRF01_AE clade present significant challenges for achieving broad and durable protection.

Other names

HIV-1 clade E antigensHIV-1 subtype AE antigensCRF01_AE viral proteinsHIV-1 subtype E antigens

Induction of humoral and cellular immune responses, including the production of neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibodies and activation of T-lymphocytes to prevent viral entry and clear infected cells.