Immunogenicity of HIV-1LAI gp160 and env peptides in squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus using alumine and experimental adjuvants

Since the identification of the HIV virus, important advances have been achieved in the definition of potential subunit vaccines. We investigated the immunogenicity of a recombinant gp160 antigen and of two gp41 peptides from HIV-1LAI associated with seven different adjuvant formulations in squirrel monkeys. All animals were immunized twice with gp160 and then with a gp41 peptide using the same formulation. All adjuvants used led to a subsequent antibody response against gp160, and 55% of the animals immunized developed anti-gp160 antibodies that could neutralize the virus in vitro. Specific anti-gp41 antibody response was also observed. Results obtained underlined the key role of the adjuvant formulation in the antibody response against a given part of the immunogen, and indicate that such immunogenicity-related investigation can be carried out conveniently in the squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus.