Containment of infection in tat vaccinated monkeys after rechallenge with a higher dose of SHIV89.6P(cy243)

We previously reported that cynomolgus monkeys vaccinated with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 Tat protein controlled infection after challenge with the simian human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) 89.6P(cy243) for up to 2 y of follow-up. To evaluate the breadth of the protective immunity elicited by the Tat protein, the vaccines along with the naive monkeys were intravenously rechallenged with a fivefold higher dose (50 MID(50)) of the same SHIV-89.6P(cy243). The vaccinated monkeys exhibited a statistically significant and long-lasting reduction of viral replication compared to control monkeys. This effect was associated with a strong anamnestic response to Tat, while responses to Gag and Env were nearly undetectable. Taken together, these data provide further evidence for the usefulness of Tat-based vaccines.