| abstract |
Antigenic and immunogenic compositions of certain inactivated strains of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been disclosed. Inactivation is performed using psoralen and ultraviolet light, and the composition is made more effective by removing the structural features of HIV that interfere with the immune response. In particular, sialic acid is removed to promote immune recognition of the composition and to weaken complement factor H binding. To prevent complement factor H binding, CD55 and CD59 are also removed. Determination of strains for inactivation may be performed using immunotherapy genotyping or assessment of potential exposure risk. |