Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Gag-Pol-Nef polyprotein and gp120 (HIV-1 Gag-Pol-Nef/gp120)

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Gag-Pol-Nef polyprotein and gp120 represent a multi-antigen complex used in the development of genetic vaccines against HIV-1. Gag, Pol, and Nef are highly conserved internal proteins essential for viral structure, replication, and immune evasion, respectively, and are included to elicit robust cellular immune responses (UniProt P04585, P04606). gp120 is the primary envelope glycoprotein that facilitates viral entry by binding to host CD4 receptors, making it the central target for inducing neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibodies (UniProt P03377). In clinical applications, these antigens are typically delivered via DNA plasmids or viral vectors to ensure endogenous expression and presentation via MHC class I and II pathways (PubMed 28834711). This approach is designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells or prevent initial infection without the risks associated with live-virus vaccines. Notable candidates utilizing this antigenic profile include Pennvax-GP and various MVA-based vectors, which have demonstrated the ability to induce polyfunctional T-cell responses and high-titer antibody production in human trials (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02041273, PubMed 30564591).

Other names

HIV-1 Gag-Pol-Nef-EnvHIV-1 multi-antigen vaccine constructGag-Pol-Nef fusion proteinHIV-1 Gag/Pol/Nef/gp120

Induction of HIV-specific cellular and humoral immune responses through the expression of viral antigens by DNA or viral vectors.