[Immunogenicity of plasmid DNA and adenoviral vectors encoding HIV-1 subtype B env gene].

Objective: To construct DNA and recombinant adenovirus vector vaccines containing an env gene from the prevalent subtype B strain in China and try to use them for therapeutic and prophylactic vaccines.

Methods: The candidate plasmid DNA vaccine pVR-gp160 and recombinant adenovirus vaccine rAdV-gp160 were constructed separately. BALB/c mice were immunized with these two vaccines in different administration schemes. HIV-1 Gp120-specific cellular responses and antibody levels were detected by ELISPOT and ELISA respectively.

Results: DNA vaccine alone and combined vaccines in a DNA prime/rAdV-gp160 boost vaccination regimen induced high level of Gp120-specific cellular responses. While low level of Gp120-specific antibodies were elicited in all groups.

Conclusion: DNA and rAdV vaccines could efficiently express Gp160 protein and activate specific cellular responses.