abstract |
A biologically active composition made up of core particles having diameters of less than about 1000 nanometers which are coated with a layer which is designed to allow attachment of biologically active proteins, peptides or pharmacological agents to the microparticles. When Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) viral protein is attached to the core particles, the result is a viral decoy which accurately mimics native HIV in size, structure and surface character while being entirely devoid of virulent activity due to the microparticle core. The HIV decoy is useful as a vaccine for treating mammals to elicit an immune response. |