Characterization of the secreted, native gp120 and gp160 of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1

HIV-1 Structural Proteins or Cell-Signaling Factors? That Is the Question!

The biological activity of structural HIV-1 proteins is not limited to ensuring a productive viral infection but also interferes with cellular homeostasis through intra- and extracellular signaling activation. This interference induces genomic instability, increases the lifespan of the infected cell by inhibiting apoptosis, and subverts cell senescence, resulting in unrestricted cell proliferation. HIV structural proteins are present in a soluble form in the lymphoid tissues and blood of infected individuals, even without active viral replication. The HIV matrix protein p17, the envelope glycoprotein gp120, the transenvelope protein gp41, and the capsid protein p24 interact with immune cells and deregulate the biological activity of the immune system. The biological activity of HIV structural proteins is also demonstrated in endothelial cells and some tumor cell lines, confirming the ability of viral proteins to promote cell proliferation and cancer progression, even in the absence of active viral replication. This review corroborates the hypothesis that HIV structural proteins, by interacting with different cell types, contribute to creating a microenvironment that is favorable to the evolution of cancerous pathologies not classically related to AIDS.

Oncogenic Effects of HIV-1 Proteins, Mechanisms Behind

People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) are at increased risk of developing cancer, such as Kaposi sarcoma (KS), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), cervical cancer, and other cancers associated with chronic viral infections. Traditionally, this is linked to HIV-1-induced immune suppression with depletion of CD4+ T-helper cells, exhaustion of lymphopoiesis and lymphocyte dysfunction. However, the long-term successful implementation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) with an early start did not preclude the oncological complications, implying that HIV-1 and its antigens are directly involved in carcinogenesis and may exert their effects on the background of restored immune system even when present at extremely low levels. Experimental data indicate that HIV-1 virions and single viral antigens can enter a wide variety of cells, including epithelial. This review is focused on the effects of five viral proteins: envelope protein gp120, accessory protein negative factor Nef, matrix protein p17, transactivator of transcription Tat and reverse transcriptase RT. Gp120, Nef, p17, Tat, and RT cause oxidative stress, can be released from HIV-1-infected cells and are oncogenic. All five are in a position to affect "innocent" bystander cells, specifically, to cause the propagation of (pre)existing malignant and malignant transformation of normal epithelial cells, giving grounds to the direct carcinogenic effects of HIV-1.

High-throughput profiling of anti-glycan humoral responses to SIV vaccination and challenge

Recent progress toward an HIV vaccine highlights both the potential of vaccines to end the AIDS pandemic and the need to boost efficacy by incorporating additional vaccine strategies. Although many aspects of the immune response can contribute to vaccine efficacy, the key factors have not been defined fully yet. A particular area that may yield new insights is anti-glycan immune responses, such as those against the glycan shield that HIV uses to evade the immune system. In this study, we used glycan microarray technology to evaluate anti-glycan antibody responses induced by SIV vaccination and infection in a non-human primate model of HIV infection. This comprehensive profiling of circulating anti-glycan antibodies found changes in anti-glycan antibody levels after both vaccination with the Ad5hr-SIV vaccine and SIV infection. Notably, SIV infection produced generalized declines in anti-glycan IgM antibodies in a number of animals. Additionally, some infected animals generated antibodies to the Tn antigen, which is a cryptic tumor-associated antigen exposed by premature termination of O-linked glycans; however, the Ad5hr-SIV vaccine did not induce anti-Tn IgG antibodies. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential contributions that glycan microarrays can make for HIV vaccine development.

Antibodies with high avidity to the gp120 envelope protein in protection from simian immunodeficiency virus SIV(mac251) acquisition in an immunization regimen that mimics the RV-144 Thai trial

The recombinant canarypox vector, ALVAC-HIV, together with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) gp120 envelope glycoprotein, has protected 31.2% of Thai individuals from HIV acquisition in the RV144 HIV vaccine trial. This outcome was unexpected, given the limited ability of the vaccine components to induce CD8(+) T-cell responses or broadly neutralizing antibodies. We vaccinated macaques with an immunization regimen intended to mimic the RV144 trial and exposed them intrarectally to a dose of the simian immunodeficiency virus SIV(mac251) that transmits few virus variants, similar to HIV transmission to humans. Vaccination induced anti-envelope antibodies in all vaccinees and CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-cell responses. Three of the 11 macaques vaccinated with ALVAC-SIV/gp120 were protected from SIV(mac251) acquisition, but the result was not significant. The remaining vaccinees were infected and progressed to disease. The magnitudes of vaccine-induced SIV(mac251)-specific T-cell responses and binding antibodies were not significantly different between protected and infected animals. However, sera from protected animals had higher avidity antibodies to gp120, recognized the variable envelope regions V1/V2, and reduced SIV(mac251) infectivity in cells that express high levels of α(4)β(7) integrins, suggesting a functional role of antibodies to V2. The current results emphasize the utility of determining the titer of repeated mucosal challenge in the preclinical evaluation of HIV vaccines.

Replicating adenovirus-simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) vectors efficiently prime SIV-specific systemic and mucosal immune responses by targeting myeloid dendritic cells and persisting in rectal macrophages, regardless of immunization route

Although priming with replicating adenovirus type 5 host range mutant (Ad5hr)-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) recombinants, followed by HIV/SIV envelope boosting, has proven highly immunogenic, resulting in protection from SIV/simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) challenges, Ad5hr recombinant distribution, replication, and persistence have not been examined comprehensively in nonhuman primates. We utilized Ad5hr-green fluorescent protein and Ad5hr-SIV recombinants to track biodistribution and immunogenicity following mucosal priming of rhesus macaques by the intranasal/intratracheal, sublingual, vaginal, or rectal route. Ad recombinants administered by all routes initially targeted macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and rectal tissue, later extending to myeloid dendritic cells in BAL fluid with persistent expression in rectal mucosa 25 weeks after the last Ad immunization. Comparable SIV-specific immunity, including cellular responses, serum binding antibody, and mucosal secretory IgA, was elicited among all groups. The ability of the vector to replicate in multiple mucosal sites irrespective of delivery route, together with the targeting of macrophages and professional antigen-presenting cells, which provide potent immunogenicity at localized sites of virus entry, warrants continued use of replicating Ad vectors.

Induction of humoral and cellular immune responses against the HIV-1 envelope protein using γ-retroviral virus-like particles

This study evaluates the immunogenicity of the HIV envelope protein (env) in mice presented either attached to γ-retroviral virus-like-particles (VLPs), associated with cell-derived microsomes or as solubilized recombinant protein (gp160). The magnitude and polyfunctionality of the cellular immune response was enhanced when delivering HIV env in the VLP or microsome form compared to recombinant gp160. Humoral responses measured by antibody titres were comparable across the groups and low levels of antibody neutralization were observed. Lastly, we identified stronger IgG2a class switching in the two particle-delivered antigen vaccinations modalities compared to recombinant gp160.

A simple one-step method for the preparation of HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein immunogens based on a CD4 mimic peptide

To counteract the problems associated with the purification of HIV envelope, we developed a new purification method exploiting the high affinity of a peptide mimicking CD4 towards the viral glycoprotein. This miniCD4 was used as a ligand in affinity chromatography and allowed the separation in one step of HIV envelope monomer from cell supernatant and the capture of pre-purified trimer. This simple and robust method of purification yielded to active and intact HIV envelopes as proved by the binding of CCR5 HIV co-receptor, CD4 and a panel of well-characterized monoclonal antibodies. The immunogenicity of miniCD4-purified HIV envelope was further assessed in rats. The analysis of the humoral response indicated that elicited antibodies were able to recognize a broad range of HIV envelopes. Finally, this method based on a chemically synthesized peptide may represent a convenient and versatile tool for protein purification compatible far scale-up in both academic and pharmaceutical researches.

Systemic immunization with an ALVAC-HIV-1/protein boost vaccine strategy protects rhesus macaques from CD4+ T-cell loss and reduces both systemic and mucosal simian-human immunodeficiency virus SHIVKU2 RNA levels

Transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) occurs primarily via the mucosal route, suggesting that HIV-1 vaccines may need to elicit mucosal immune responses. Here, we investigated the immunogenicity and relative efficacy of systemic immunization with two human ALVAC-HIV-1 recombinant vaccines expressing Gag, Pol, and gp120 (vCP250) or Gag, Pol, and gp160 (vCP1420) in a prime-boost protocol with their homologous vaccine native Env proteins. The relative efficacy was measured against a high-dose mucosal exposure to the pathogenic neutralization-resistant variant SHIV(KU2) (simian-human immunodeficiency virus). Systemic immunization with both vaccine regimens decreased viral load levels not only in blood but unexpectedly also in mucosal sites and protected macaques from peripheral CD4+ T-cell loss. This protective effect was stronger when the gp120 antigen was included in the vaccine. Inclusion of recombinant Tat protein in the boosting phase along with the Env protein did not contribute further to the preservation of CD4+ T cells. Thus, systemic immunization with ALVAC-HIV-1 vaccine candidates elicits anti-HIV-1 immune responses able to contain virus replication also at mucosal sites in macaques.

A simplified method for the rapid fluorometric assessment of antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity

We demonstrate that the FATAL cytolysis assay can be adapted into a rapid and fluorometric antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity assay (RFADCC). The RFADCC relies on double-staining target cells with a membrane dye (PKH-26) and a viability dye (CFSE) prior to the addition of antibody and effector cells. We used the RFADCC to assess dose-dependent and envelope-specific anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) ADCC responses mediated by monoclonal antibody-2G12 and human sera. Using the assay, we also detected early anti-simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) ADCC responses in rhesus macaques infected with pathogenic SIV(mac251). Importantly, the RFADCC was further useful in monitoring anti-HIV and anti-SIV ADCC responses elicited by immunizing chimpanzees and rhesus macaques with replicating adenovirus-based AIDS vaccine candidates. In comparison to the standard chromium release assay, the RFADCC provides a higher cell killing readout and is advantageous in allowing use of viably frozen as well as fresh effector cells, thus facilitating assay standardization. The RFADCC is therefore a simple, reliable, and highly sensitive method that can be applied to assess the ADCC activity of monoclonal antibodies as well as ADCC responses elicited by HIV or SIV infection or by AIDS vaccine candidates.

Immunostimulatory CpG motifs induce CTL responses to HIV type I oligomeric gp140 envelope protein

In the present study we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of two adjuvants, liposomal lipid A [L(LA)] and CpG-containing oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG ODN), to the HIV-1 ogp140 envelope protein. Administration of each of these adjuvants separately with unencapsulated ogp140 resulted in low antibody titres. Encapsulation of ogp140 in liposomes containing lipid A resulted in a sixfold increase in anti-ogp140 antibodies. The antibody titres were further enhanced threefold by the addition of CpG ODN. Priming and boosting BALB/c mice with unencapsulated ogp140 with L(LA) or encapsulation in liposomes containing lipid A induced a mixed Th1/Th2 type of immune response. In contrast, immunization with L(ogp140 + LA) plus CpG ODN switched the immune response to a Th-1 response with elevated anti-ogp140 IgG2a antibodies and IFN-gamma levels. Both adjuvants induced excellent ogp140-specific proliferative and CTL responses. Therefore, for the induction of high titre antibodies, but not for cellular responses, the antigen and lipid A have to be present in the same liposomes. These results can have significant implications in directing the Th1 or Th2 differentiation of antigen-specific immune responses in the context of vaccine development.

Liposome-stabilized oil-in-water emulsions as adjuvants: increased emulsion stability promotes induction of cytotoxic T lymphocytes against an HIV envelope antigen

Protective or therapeutic immunity against HIV infection is currently believed to require both antibody and CTL responses against the envelope protein. In the present study, the adjuvant activity of a unique oil-in-water emulsion, in which liposomes containing lipid A (LA) and encapsulated antigen served as the emulsifying agent, was examined in mice using oligomeric gp140 (ogp140) derived from the HIV-1 envelope as the antigen. Emulsions rendered either highly stable or unstable by altering the ratio of liposomes to oil were used to examine the effect of stability of the emulsion on adjuvant activity. Stable and unstable emulsions had similar potencies for inducing both IgG antibodies to ogp140 and antigen-specific T-lymphocyte proliferation. Stable emulsions, but not unstable emulsions, induced antigen-specific CTL responses, possibly because of the depot effect of the stable emulsions. Furthermore, stable emulsions induced lower IgG2a/IgG1 ratios than the unstable emulsions. We conclude that stable liposomal oil-in-water emulsions provide an effective means of obtaining both antibody and CTL responses against an HIV envelope antigen.

Evaluation of combination DNA/replication-competent Ad-SIV recombinant immunization regimens in rhesus macaques

Combination vaccine regimens in which priming with recombinant DNA is followed by boosting with recombinant viral vectors have been shown in previous studies to effectively enhance cellular immunity. However, no information exists concerning possible synergy of the cellular immune response when DNA immunization is followed by administration of a recombinant vector able to replicate. As our approach makes use of replication-competent Ad HIV and SIV recombinants, we performed a pilot experiment in six rhesus macaques in which we compared immunogenicity resulting from priming with one or two DNA recombinants encoding the SIVsmH4 env and rev genes with that elicited by a single replication-competent Ad5hr-SIV env/rev priming immunization. All macaques were subsequently administered an Ad5hr-SIV env/rev booster immunization followed by two immunizations with SIV gp120 protein. The choice of the env gene as target immunogen allowed comparison of induced cellular immune responses as well as binding and neutralizing antibodies elicited in serum and mucosal secretions. We report here that all immunized monkeys developed strong cellular immunity to the SIV envelope as shown by secretion of interferon-gamma, lysis of envelope-expressing target cells, and/or proliferation in response to gp120 or inactivated SIV. Similarly, all macaques developed anti-gp120 binding antibodies and neutralizing antibodies in serum and IgG and IgA binding antibodies in mucosal secretions. We did not observe consistently enhanced immune responses in any immunization group. We conclude that two sequential immunizations with the same replication-competent Ad5hr-SIV recombinant is as effective as priming with one or two recombinant DNA vaccines followed by a single Ad5hrSIV recombinant immunization.

Improved protection of rhesus macaques against intrarectal simian immunodeficiency virus SIV(mac251) challenge by a replication-competent Ad5hr-SIVenv/rev and Ad5hr-SIVgag recombinant priming/gp120 boosting regimen

In this study we investigated the ability of a replication-competent Ad5hr-SIVenv/rev and Ad5hr-SIVgag recombinant priming/gp120 boosting regimen to induce protective immunity in rhesus macaques against pathogenic simian immunodeficiency virus(mac251). Immunization of macaques by two sequential administrations of the same recombinants by the same route resulted in boosting and persistence of SIV-specific cellular immune responses for 42 weeks past the initial immunization. Anti-SIV gp120 immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgA antibodies were induced in secretory fluids, and all macaques exhibited serum neutralizing antibody activity. After intrarectal SIV(mac251) challenge, all of the macaques became infected. However, relative protection, as assessed by statistically significant lower SIV viral loads in plasma at both acute infection and set point, was observed in 8 out of 12 immunized non-Mamu-A(*)01 animals. Elevated mean cellular immune responses to Gag and Env, neutralizing antibody activity, and IgG and IgA binding antibody levels were observed in the eight protected macaques. Statistically significant correlations with protective outcome were observed for cellular immune responses to SIV Env and Gag and for SIV gp120-specific IgG antibodies in nasal and vaginal fluids. Two macaques that exhibited the greatest and most persistent viremia control also exhibited strong CD8(+) T-cell antiviral activity. The results suggest that a spectrum of immune responses may be necessary for adequate control of viral replication and disease progression and highlight a potential role for nonneutralizing antibodies at mucosal sites.

The lectin jacalin induces phosphorylation of ERK and JNK in CD4+ T cells

The CD4 molecule plays an essential role in mediating the transduction of intracellular signals by functioning as a coreceptor for the complex T cell receptor/CD3 and also acts as the primary receptor for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Several authors have shown evidence that jacalin, a plant lectin, binds to CD4 and inhibits in vitro HIV infection. We analyzed jacalin-induced intracellular signaling events in CD4(+) T cells and have shown that cell activation resulted in tyrosine phosphorylation of intracellular substrates p56(lck), p59(fyn), ZAP-70, p95 (vav), phospholipase C-gamma1, and ras activation, as assessed by conversion of ras guanosine 5'-diphosphate to ras guanosine 5'-triphosphate. We further examined extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) and c-jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation following stimulation with jacalin. The data indicate that the kinetics of JNK phosphorylation is delayed. Optimum phosphorylation of ERK2 was observed by 10 min, and that of JNK was observed by 30 min. Pretreatment with gp120 followed by stimulation with jacalin resulted in marked inhibition of all of the aforementioned intracellular events. The data presented here provide insight into the intracellular signaling events associated with the CD4 molecule-jacalin-gp120 interactions and HIV-induced CD4(+) T cell anergy. Jacalin may be used as a possible tool for the study of CD4-mediated signal transduction and HIV-impaired CD4(+) T cell activation.

A replication competent adenovirus 5 host range mutant-simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) recombinant priming/subunit protein boosting vaccine regimen induces broad, persistent SIV-specific cellular immunity to dominant and subdominant epitopes in Mamu-A*01 rhesus macaques

CTL are important in controlling HIV and SIV infection. To quantify cellular immune responses induced by immunization, CD8(+) T cells specific for the subdominant Env p15m and p54m epitopes and/or the dominant Gag p11C epitope were evaluated by tetramer staining in nine macaques immunized with an adenovirus (Ad) 5 host range mutant (Ad5hr)-SIVenv/rev recombinant and in four of nine which also received an Ad5hr-SIVgag recombinant. Two Ad5hr-SIV recombinant priming immunizations were followed by two boosts with gp120 protein or an envelope polypeptide representing the CD4 binding domain. Two mock-immunized macaques served as controls. IFN-gamma-secreting cells were also assessed by ELISPOT assay using p11C, p15m, and p54m peptide stimuli and overlapping pooled Gag and Env peptides. As shown by tetramer staining, Ad-recombinant priming elicited a high frequency of persistent CD8(+) T cells able to recognize p11C, p15m, and p54m epitopes. The presence of memory cells 38 wk postinitial immunization was confirmed by expansion of tetramer-positive CD8(+) T cells following in vitro stimulation. The SIV-specific CD8(+) T cells elicited were functional and secreted IFN-gamma in response to SIV peptide stimuli. Although the level and frequency of response of peripheral blood CD8(+) T cells to the subdominant Env epitopes were not as great as those to the dominant p11C epitope, elevated responses were observed when lymph node CD8(+) T cells were evaluated. Our data confirm the potency and persistence of functional cellular immune responses elicited by replication competent Ad-recombinant priming. The cellular immunity elicited is broad and extends to subdominant epitopes.

Concordant modulation of neutralization resistance and high infectivity of the primary human immunodeficiency virus type 1 MN strain and definition of a potential gp41 binding site in gp120

Efforts to develop a vaccine against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) are complicated by resistance of virus to neutralization. The neutralization resistance phenotype of HIV-1 has been linked to high infectivity. We studied the mechanisms determining this phenotype using clones of the T-cell-line-adapted (TCLA) MN strain (MN-TCLA) and the neutralization-resistant, primary MN strain (MN-P). Mutations in the amino- and carboxy-terminal halves of gp120 and the carboxy terminus of gp41 contributed to the neutralization resistance, high-infectivity phenotype but depended upon sequences in the leucine zipper (LZ) domain of gp41. Among 23 clones constructed to map the contributing mutations, there was a very strong correlation between infectivity and neutralization resistance (R(2) = 0.81; P < 0.0001). Mutations that distinguished the gp120s of MN-P and MN-TCLA clones were clustered in or near the CD4 and coreceptor binding sites and in regions distant from those binding sites. To test the hypothesis that some of these distant mutations may interact with gp41, we determined which of them contributed to high infectivity and whether those mutations modulated gp120-gp41 association in the context of MN-P LZ sequences. In one clone, six mutations in the amino terminus of gp120, at least four of which clustered closely on the inner domain, modulated infectivity. This clone had a gp120-gp41 association phenotype like MN-P: in comparison to MN-TCLA, spontaneous dissociation was low, and dissociation induced by soluble CD4 binding was high. These results identify a region of the gp120 inner domain that may be a binding site for gp41. Our studies clarify mechanisms of primary virus neutralization resistance.

Crosslinked HIV-1 envelope-CD4 receptor complexes elicit broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies in rhesus macaques

The identification of HIV envelope structures that generate broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies is a major goal for HIV-vaccine development. In this study, we evaluated one such structure, expressed as either a gp120-CD4 or a gp140-CD4 complex, for its ability to elicit a neutralizing antibody response. In rhesus macaques, covalently crosslinked complexes of soluble human CD4 (shCD4) and HIV-1(IIIB) envelope glycoproteins (gp120 or gp140) generated antibodies that neutralized a wide range of primary HIV-1 isolates regardless of the coreceptor usage or genetic subtype. Ig with cross-reactive neutralizing activity was recovered by affinity chromatography with a chimeric single-chain polypeptide containing sequences for HIV(BaL) gp120 and a mimetic peptide that induces a CD4-triggered envelope structure. These results suggest that covalently crosslinked complexes of the HIV-1 surface envelope glycoprotein and CD4 elicit broadly neutralizing humoral responses that, in part, may be directed against a novel epitope(s) found on the HIV-1 envelope.

Potent, persistent cellular immune responses elicited by sequential immunization of rhesus macaques with Ad5 host range mutant recombinants encoding SIV Rev and SIV Nef

Vaccines incorporating multiple HIV components should elicit broad immunity and protection against a spectrum of HIV strains. Early regulatory and accessory gene products are attractive candidates for such vaccines. Here, immunogenicity studies on SIV Rev and Nef expressed in replication competent Adenovirus type 5 host range mutant vectors (Ad5hr) are summarized. Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)-secreting cells in response to Env and Rev peptides were enumerated by ELISPOT after two sequential immunizations of 55 macaques with Ad5hr-SIVenv/rev. Responses to SIV Nef were assessed in 16 macaques also immunized with Ad5hr-SIVnef. Potent cellular immunity to both Rev and Nef was induced following the second Ad-recombinant immunization and persisted for at least 30 weeks. Persistent cellular immunity to SIV Env was also seen, with a mean of 700 IFN-gamma-secreting cells per million PBMC. Rev and Env responses were positively correlated. While greater responses to early gene products occur in natural infection, as immunogens Rev and Nef elicited the same number of IFN-gamma secreting cells as Env, after adjusting for differences in protein size. The same percentage of macaques also responded to Rev, Nef, and Env: 59, 63, and 64%, respectively. Overall, Ad5hrSIVenv/rev and -SIVnef were highly effective immunogens. Their contribution to protective efficacy will be addressed in future studies.

Human herpesvirus 8 reactivation and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 gp120

CONTEXT

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) is the presumed etiologic agent of Kaposi sarcoma (KS), the most common neoplasm in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Current evidence indicates HHV-8 is necessary, but not sufficient, for KS development without the involvement of other cofactors. One potentially important cofactor is human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Although HIV-1 is not essential for development of KS, studies have shown factors released from HIV-1-infected cells, including HIV-1 proteins and cytokines, promote the growth of KS cells in vitro. Recently, studies have shown that coculture of HIV-1-infected T cells with HHV-8-infected primary effusion lymphoma cell lines results in HHV-8 reactivation. This response was due, in part, to cytokines. However, only a portion of induced HHV-8 replication could be accounted for by cytokine stimulation, indicating that other factors, including HIV-1-associated proteins, may also be involved.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate a possible role for HIV-1 gp120 in HHV-8 reactivation.

DESIGN

Using an in vitro model system, we examined the effect of recombinant HIV-1 gp120 protein on HHV-8 replication in latently infected primary effusion lymphoma cell lines.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Reactivation of HHV-8 was analyzed using Northern blot analysis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for ORF26 messenger RNA expression, a gene encoding for the HHV-8 minor capsid protein produced only during reactivation. The results were extended and confirmed using a luciferase reporter construct driven by the HHV-8 ORF50 promoter, the first promoter activated during HHV-8 replication.

RESULTS

No evidence of enhanced HHV-8 replication was found following treatment with HIV-1 gp120. In addition, HIV-1 gp120 was unable to act synergistically with interferon-gamma or hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor to enhance reactivation of the virus in infected primary effusion lymphoma cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-1 gp120 does not appear to be responsible for the reactivation of HHV-8 demonstrated in our previous studies. Further studies are necessary to determine if other HIV-associated proteins, particularly Tat, gp160, and/or gp41, which are also released from infected cells, may be important in inducing HHV-8 reactivation.

ALVAC-SIV-gag-pol-env-based vaccination and macaque major histocompatibility complex class I (A*01) delay simian immunodeficiency virus SIVmac-induced immunodeficiency

T-cell-mediated immune effector mechanisms play an important role in the containment of human immunodeficiency virus/simian immunodeficiency virus (HIV/SIV) replication after infection. Both vaccination- and infection-induced T-cell responses are dependent on the host major histocompatibility complex classes I and II (MHC-I and MHC-II) antigens. Here we report that both inherent, host-dependent immune responses to SIVmac251 infection and vaccination-induced immune responses to viral antigens were able to reduce virus replication and/or CD4+ T-cell loss. Both the presence of the MHC-I Mamu-A*01 genotype and vaccination of rhesus macaques with ALVAC-SIV-gag-pol-env (ALVAC-SIV-gpe) contributed to the restriction of SIVmac251 replication during primary infection, preservation of CD4+ T cells, and delayed disease progression following intrarectal challenge exposure of the animals to SIV(mac251 (561)). ALVAC-SIV-gpe immunization induced cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses cumulatively in 67% of the immunized animals. Following viral challenge, a significant secondary virus-specific CD8+ T-cell response was observed in the vaccinated macaques. In the same immunized macaques, a decrease in virus load during primary infection (P = 0.0078) and protection from CD4 loss during both acute and chronic phases of infection (P = 0.0099 and P = 0.03, respectively) were observed. A trend for enhanced survival of the vaccinated macaques was also observed. Neither boosting the ALVAC-SIV-gpe with gp120 immunizations nor administering the vaccine by the combination of mucosal and systemic immunization routes increased significantly the protective effect of the ALVAC-SIV-gpe vaccine. While assessing the role of MHC-I Mamu-A*01 alone in the restriction of viremia following challenge of nonvaccinated animals with other SIV isolates, we observed that the virus load was not significantly lower in Mamu-A*01-positive macaques following intravenous challenge with either SIV(mac251 (561)) or SIV(SME660). However, a significant delay in CD4+ T-cell loss was observed in Mamu-A*01-positive macaques in each group. Of interest, in the case of intravenous or intrarectal challenge with the chimeric SIV/HIV strains SHIV(89.6P) or SHIV(KU2), respectively, MHC-I Mamu-A*01-positive macaques did not significantly restrict primary viremia. The finding of the protective effect of the Mamu-A*01 molecule parallels the protective effect of the B*5701 HLA allele in HIV-1-infected humans and needs to be accounted for in the evaluation of vaccine efficacy against SIV challenge models.

A conformational C4 peptide polymer vaccine coupled with live recombinant vector priming is immunogenic but does not protect against rectal SIV challenge

The conserved, immunogenic CD4 binding site on the viral envelope is an attractive HIV or SIV vaccine candidate. Polymerization of an 18 amino acid segment derived from the C4 domain of SIV gp120 produced a peptide polymer or "peptomer," having an alpha-helical conformation possibly mimicking a proposed structure of the C4 domain in the unbound native protein. The SIV peptomer and native gp120 were compared as subunit boosts following two adenovirus type 5 host range (Ad5hr)-SIVenv recombinant priming immunizations. Both vaccine regimens successfully elicited SIV-specific CTL responses in five of six immunized macaques. Peptomer-boosted macaques exhibited significantly higher envelope-specific T cell proliferative responses than either the gp120-boosted macaques or controls. Peptomer immunization also elicited peptomer and SIV gp120-specific binding antibodies, but only native gp120 boosting elicited SIV neutralizing antibodies. Upon intrarectal challenge with SIVmac32H, all nine macaques became infected. The solely envelope-based vaccine conferred no protection. However, changing the boosting immunogen to the C4 peptomer did not improve protective efficacy in spite of its elicitation of humoral and cellular immune responses, including robust T-helper activity. In spite of the peptomer's strong immunogenicity and potential for induction of broadly protective immune responses, it was not effective as a subunit vaccine.

A human immunodeficiency virus prime-boost immunization regimen in humans induces antibodies that show interclade cross-reactivity and neutralize several X4-, R5-, and dualtropic clade B and C primary isolates

A human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine that will be useful in diverse geographic regions will need to induce a broad immune response characterized by cross-clade immunity. To test whether a clade B-based HIV candidate vaccine could induce interclade humoral responses, including neutralizing activity against primary HIV-1 isolates, sera were tested from recipients of a vaccine consisting of recombinant canarypox virus vCP205 and recombinant gp120(SF2). Serum antibodies exhibited strong immunochemical cross-reactivity with V3 peptides from clades B, C, and F, with weaker activity for several V3 peptides from clades A, D, G, and H; essentially no reactivity could be demonstrated with V3 peptides from clades E and O. Extensive cross-clade reactivity was also documented by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with all nine recombinant HIV envelope glycoproteins tested from clades B, D, and E. In addition, vaccinees' sera displayed significant neutralizing activity against 5 of 14 primary isolates tested, including one X4 virus and two dualtropic viruses (from clade B) and two R5 viruses (from clades B and C). This is the first demonstration of the induction by a candidate HIV vaccine constructed from clade B laboratory strains of HIV of neutralizing activity against R5 and clade C primary isolates. The data suggest that, by virtue of their ability to induce cross-clade immune responses, appropriately formulated HIV vaccines based on a finite number of HIV isolates may ultimately be able to protect against the wide range of HIV isolates affecting the populations of many geographic regions.

Effectiveness of intranasal immunization with HIV-gp160 and an HIV-1 env CTL epitope peptide (E7) in combination with the mucosal adjuvant LT(R192G)

LT(R192G) is a novel mucosal adjuvant that induces protective immunity when co-administered with certain whole inactivated bacteria or viruses or with subunits of relevant virulence determinants from these pathogens. LT(R192G) stimulates antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses, both systemically and in mucosal compartments, and is safe and nontoxic at adjuvant effective doses. Intranasal (IN) immunization of mice with LT(R192G) in conjunction with oligomeric HIV-1 gp160 elevates antigen-specific systemic and mucosal IgG and IgA production and Th1- and Th2-type cytokine responses. Isotype characterization of induced IgG reveals that gp160 alone fails to stimulate IgG2a responses in the absence of adjuvant. Both IgG1 and IgG2a are induced by immunization in the presence of LT(R192G). Additionally, intranasal immunization with a 15-amino acid peptide corresponding to an HIV-1 Env CTL determinant and LT(R192G) induces systemic, peptide-specific CTL activity and Th1 and Th2 cytokine responses that are absent when the adjuvant is excluded from the immunizations. These studies show that LT(R192G) quantitatively and qualitatively enhances cellular and humoral HIV-specific immune responses and that this adjuvant may offer significant advantages toward vaccine development against HIV.

Effects of oligomerization on the epitopes of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope glycoproteins

To understand the differential expression of epitopes on monomeric and oligomeric forms of the envelope glycoproteins, nine human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were derived from the cells of human immunodeficiency virus-infected subjects by selection with soluble oligomeric gp140 (o.140). These nine mAbs and 12 human mAbs selected with V3 peptides, viral lysates, and rgp120, specific for the V2, V3, C5, CD4-binding domain (CD4bd), and gp41, were tested in a binding assay to compare the exposure of these regions on monomeric gp120 or gp41 and on o.140. None of the 21 mAbs were oligomer specific. However, mAbs to V3 and CD4bd were "oligomer sensitive," whereas mAbs to V2 and the distal epitope of C5 tended to be "monomer sensitive" (i.e., to react better with the oligomer or monomer, respectively). The majority of anti-gp41 mAbs reacted similarly with monomer and oligomer. Although the uncleaved o.140 used in this study differs from the cleaved gp120/41 oligomer found on the native virus particle, these results suggest that new epitopes are not introduced by oligomerization of viral envelope proteins, that such oligomer-specific epitopes, if they exist, are not highly immunogenic, and/or that they are not efficiently selected using soluble o.140.

Factors associated with slow disease progression in macaques immunized with an adenovirus-simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) envelope priming-gp120 boosting regimen and challenged vaginally with SIVmac251

Rhesus macaques were immunized with a combination vaccine regimen consisting of adenovirus type 5 host range mutant-simian immunodeficiency virus envelope (Ad5hr-SIVenv) recombinant priming and boosting with native SIV gp120. Upon intravaginal challenge with SIVmac251, both persistently and transiently viremic animals were observed (S. L. Buge, E. Richardson, S. Alipanah, P. Markham, S. Cheng, N. Kalyan, C. J. Miller, M. Lubeck, S. Udem, J. Eldridge, and M. Robert-Guroff, J. Virol. 71:8531-8541, 1997). Long-term follow-up of the persistently viremic immunized macaques, which displayed significantly reduced viral burdens during the first 18 weeks postchallenge compared to controls, has now shown that one of four became a slow progressor, clearing virus from plasma and remaining asymptomatic with stable CD4 counts for 134 weeks postchallenge. Reboosting of the transiently viremic macaques did not reactivate latent virus. Rechallenge with two sequential SIVmac251 intravaginal exposures again resulted in partial protection of one of two immunized macaques, manifested by viral clearance and stable CD4 counts. No single immune parameter was associated with partial protection. Development of a strong antibody response capable of neutralizing a primary SIVmac251 isolate together with SIV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes were implicated, while CD8(+) T-cell antiviral activity and mucosal immune responses were not associated with delayed disease progression. Our data show that even a third immunization with the same Ad5hr-SIVenv recombinant can elicit significant immune responses to the inserted gene product, suggesting that preexisting Ad antibodies may not preclude effective immunization. Further, the partial protection against a virulent, pathogenic SIV challenge observed in two of six macaques immunized with a vaccine regimen based solely on the viral envelope indicates that this vectored-vaccine approach has promise and that multicomponent vaccines based in the same system merit further investigation.

Limited protection from a pathogenic chimeric simian-human immunodeficiency virus challenge following immunization with attenuated simian immunodeficiency virus

Two live attenuated single-deletion mutant simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) constructs, SIV239Deltanef and SIVPBj6.6Deltanef, were tested for their abilities to stimulate protective immunity in macaques. During the immunization period the animals were examined for specific immune responses and virus growth. Each construct generated high levels of specific immunity in all of the immunized animals. The SIV239Deltanef construct was found to grow to high levels in all immunized animals, with some animals remaining positive for virus isolation and plasma RNA throughout the immunization period. The SIVPBj6.6Deltanef was effectively controlled by all of the immunized animals, with virus mostly isolated only during the first few months following immunization and plasma RNA never detected. Following an extended period of immunization of over 80 weeks, the animals were challenged with a pathogenic simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) isolate, SIV89. 6PD, by intravenous injection. All of the SIV239Deltanef-immunized animals became infected with the SHIV isolate; two of five animals eventually controlled the challenge and three of five animals, which failed to check the immunizing virus, progressed to disease state before the unvaccinated controls. One of five animals immunized with SIVPBj6.6Deltanef totally resisted infection by the challenge virus, while three others limited its growth and the remaining animal became persistently infected and eventually died of a pulmonary thrombus. These data indicate that vaccination with attenuated SIV can protect macaques from disease and in some cases from infection by a divergent SHIV. However, if animals are unable to control the immunizing virus, potential damage that can accelerate the disease course of a pathogenic challenge virus may occur.

Neutralizing antibodies from the sera of human immunodeficiency virus type 1-infected individuals bind to monomeric gp120 and oligomeric gp140

Antibodies that neutralize primary isolates of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) appear during HIV-1 infection but are difficult to elicit by immunization with current vaccine products comprised of monomeric forms of HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120. The limited neutralizing antibody response generated by gp120 vaccine products could be due to the absence or inaccessibility of the relevant epitopes. To determine whether neutralizing antibodies from HIV-1-infected patients bind to epitopes accessible on monomeric gp120 and/or oligomeric gp140 (ogp140), purified total immunoglobulin from the sera of two HIV-1-infected patients as well as pooled HIV immune globulin were selectively depleted of antibodies which bound to immobilized gp120 or ogp140. After passage of each immunoglobulin preparation through the respective columns, antibody titers against gp120 and ogp140 were specifically reduced at least 128-fold. The gp120- and gp140-depleted antibody fraction from each serum displayed reduced neutralization activity against three primary and two T-cell line-adapted (TCLA) HIV-1 isolates. Significant residual neutralizing activity, however, persisted in the depleted sera, indicating additional neutralizing antibody specificities. gp120- and ogp140-specific antibodies eluted from each column neutralized both primary and TCLA viruses. These data demonstrate the presence and accessibility of epitopes on both monomeric gp120 and ogp140 that are specific for antibodies that are capable of neutralizing primary isolates of HIV-1. Thus, the difficulties associated with eliciting neutralizing antibodies by using current monomeric gp120 subunit vaccines may be related less to improper protein structure and more to ineffective immunogen formulation and/or presentation.

Inhibition of HIV type 1 infectivity by coexpression of a wild-type and a defective glycoprotein 120

An amino acid substitution (D --> K) in the C3 region of HIV-1 gp120 has previously been shown to inhibit binding of virions to CD4+ cells. We have introduced the same mutation into the HIV-1 isolate LAV-I(BRU), in which the mutation is denoted D373K. Here we show that the D373K envelope protein is processed and incorporated into virus particles, but that D373K virions have no detectable infectivity (below 0.1% relative to wild type). When D373K and the wild-type envelope gene were cotransfected in 293 cells at a 4:1 ratio, the resultant infectivity of the HIV-1 supernatant was reduced more than 100-fold. When the same ratio of plasmids was tested in COS-1 cells the inhibition of HIV-1 was an order of magnitude less than observed in 293 cells. COS-1 and 293 cells differed in that only 293 cells displayed saturation of virus production with respect to the envelope protein. Our data fit a simple model: when virion formation is saturated with envelope protein, expression and incorporation of a defective envelope protein imply a corresponding dilution of wild-type protein on the surface of virions. The cooperative function of wild-type envelope proteins is subsequently compromised, and a trans-dominant inhibition of virus infectivity is observed.

HIV-1 Neutralizing Antibodies in the Genital and Respiratory Tracts of Mice Intranasally Immunized with Oligomeric gp160

Because mucosal surfaces are a primary route of HIV-1 infection, we evaluated the mucosal immunogenicity of a candidate HIV-1 vaccine, oligomeric gp160 (o-gp160). In prior studies, parenteral immunization of rabbits with o-gp160 elicited broad neutralizing serum Ab responses against both T cell line-adapted HIV-1 and some primary HIV-1 isolates. In this study, nasal immunization of mice with o-gp160, formulated with liposomes containing monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL), MPL-AF, proteosomes, emulsomes, or proteosomes with emulsomes elicited strong gp160-specific IgG and IgA responses in serum as well as vaginal, lung, and intestinal washes and fecal pellets. The genital, respiratory, and intestinal Abs were determined to be locally produced. No mucosal immune responses were measurable when the immunogen was given s.c. Abs from sera and from vaginal and lung washes preferentially recognized native forms of monomeric gp120, suggesting no substantial loss in protein tertiary conformation after vaccine formulation and mucosal administration. Inhibition of HIV-1MN infection of H9 cells was found in sera from mice immunized intranasally with o-gp160 formulated with liposomes plus MPL, proteosomes, and proteosomes plus emulsomes. Formulations of o-gp160 with MPL-AF, proteosomes, emulsomes, or proteosomes plus emulsomes elicited HIV-1MN-neutralizing Ab in lung wash, and formulations with proteosomes, emulsomes, or proteosomes plus emulsomes elicited HIV-1MN-neutralizing Ab in vaginal wash. These data demonstrate the feasibility of inducing both systemic and mucosal HIV-1-neutralizing Ab by intranasal immunization with an oligomeric gp160 protein.

Influenza hemagglutinin is spring-loaded by a metastable native conformation

Enveloped viruses enter cells by protein-mediated membrane fusion. For influenza virus, membrane fusion is regulated by the conformational state of the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, which switches from a native (nonfusogenic) structure to a fusion-active (fusogenic) conformation when exposed to the acidic environment of the cellular endosome. Here we demonstrate that destabilization of HA at neutral pH, with either heat or the denaturant urea, triggers a conformational change that is biochemically indistinguishable from the change triggered by low pH. In each case, the conformational change is coincident with induction of membrane-fusion activity, providing strong evidence that the fusogenic structure is formed. These results indicate that the native structure of HA is trapped in a metastable state and that the fusogenic conformation is released by destabilization of native structure. This strategy may be shared by other enveloped viruses, including those that enter the cell at neutral pH, and could have implications for understanding the membrane-fusion step of HIV infection.

An adenovirus-simian immunodeficiency virus env vaccine elicits humoral, cellular, and mucosal immune responses in rhesus macaques and decreases viral burden following vaginal challenge

Six female rhesus macaques were immunized orally and intranasally at 0 weeks and intratracheally at 12 weeks with an adenovirus type 5 host range mutant (Ad5hr)-simian immunodeficiency virus SIVsm env recombinant and at 24 and 36 weeks with native SIVmac251 gp120 in Syntex adjuvant. Four macaques received the Ad5hr vector and adjuvant alone; two additional controls were naive. In vivo replication of the Ad5hr wild-type and recombinant vectors occurred with detection of Ad5 DNA in stool samples and/or nasal secretions in all macaques and increases in Ad5 neutralizing antibody in 9 of 10 macaques following Ad administrations. SIV-specific neutralizing antibodies appeared after the second recombinant immunization and rose to titers > 10,000 following the second subunit boost. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgA antibodies able to bind gp120 developed in nasal and rectal secretions, and SIV-specific IgGs were also observed in vaginal secretions and saliva. T-cell proliferative responses to SIV gp140 and T-helper epitopes were sporadically detected in all immunized macaques. Following vaginal challenge with SIVmac251, transient or persistent infection resulted in both immunized and control monkeys. The mean viral burden in persistently infected immunized macaques was significantly decreased in the primary infection period compared to that of control macaques. These results establish in vivo use of the Ad5hr vector, which overcomes the host range restriction of human Ads for rhesus macaques, thereby providing a new model for evaluation of Ad-based vaccines. In addition, they show that a vaccine regimen using the Ad5hr-SIV env recombinant and gp120 subunit induces strong humoral, cellular, and mucosal immunity in rhesus macaques. The reduced viral burden achieved solely with an env-based vaccine supports further development of Ad-based vaccines comprising additional viral components for immune therapy and AIDS vaccine development.

Potent and synergistic neutralization of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 primary isolates by hyperimmune anti-HIV immunoglobulin combined with monoclonal antibodies 2F5 and 2G12

Three antibody reagents that neutralize primary human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) isolates were tested for magnitude and breadth of neutralization when used alone or in double or triple combinations. Hyperimmune anti-HIV immunoglobulin (HIVIG) is derived from the plasma of HIV-1-infected donors, and monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) 2F5 and 2G12 bind to distinct regions of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein. The antibodies were initially tested against a panel of 15 clade B HIV-1 isolates, using a single concentration that is achievable in vivo (HIVIG, 2,500 microg/ml; MAbs, 25 microg/ml). Individual antibody reagents neutralized many of the viruses tested, but antibody potency varied substantially among the viruses. The virus neutralization produced by double combinations of HIVIG plus 2F5 or 2G12, the two MAbs together, or the triple combination of HIVIG, 2F5, and 2G12 was generally equal to or greater than that predicted by the effect of individual antibodies. Overall, the triple combination displayed the greatest magnitude and breadth of neutralization. Synergistic neutralization was evaluated by analyzing data from dose-response curves of each individual antibody reagent compared to the triple combination and was demonstrated against each of four viruses tested. Therefore, combinations of polyclonal and monoclonal anti-HIV antibodies can produce additive or synergistic neutralization of primary HIV-1 isolates. Passive immunotherapy for treatment or prophylaxis of HIV-1 should consider mixtures of potent neutralizing antibody reagents to expand the magnitude and breadth of virus neutralization.

Modulation of Bcl-2 Protein by CD4 Cross-Linking: A Possible Mechanism for Lymphocyte Apoptosis in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and for Rescue of Apoptosis by Interleukin-2

We have previously demonstrated that CD4 cross-linking (CD4XL) results in apoptosis of CD4+ T cells and augmentation of Fas antigen (CD95, APO-1) expression in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Here we demonstrate that CD4XL mediated by both, anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) envelope protein gp120 reduces the expression of the proto-oncogene Bcl-2 in CD4+ T cells, but not in CD8+ T cells, concurrently with the induction of CD4+ T cell-apoptosis. Additionally, the Bcl-2dim population expressed high levels of Fas antigen. Bax, an antagonist of Bcl-2, was brightly expressed even in the Bcl-2dim population. Addition of interleukin (IL)-2 rescued CD4+ T cells from CD4XL-induced Bcl-2 downmodulation and apoptosis induction. These results support the hypothesis that CD4 ligation by HIV-1 envelope protein in vivo in HIV-infected patients selectively reduces Bcl-2 protein in CD4+ T lymphocytes, thereby facilitating Fas/Fas-ligand triggered apoptosis; furthermore the findings reported expand the rationale for use of IL-2 in HIV disease.

Modulation of Bcl-2 Protein by CD4 Cross-Linking: A Possible Mechanism for Lymphocyte Apoptosis in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and for Rescue of Apoptosis by Interleukin-2

We have previously demonstrated that CD4 cross-linking (CD4XL) results in apoptosis of CD4+ T cells and augmentation of Fas antigen (CD95, APO-1) expression in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Here we demonstrate that CD4XL mediated by both, anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) envelope protein gp120 reduces the expression of the proto-oncogene Bcl-2 in CD4+ T cells, but not in CD8+ T cells, concurrently with the induction of CD4+ T cell-apoptosis. Additionally, the Bcl-2dim population expressed high levels of Fas antigen. Bax, an antagonist of Bcl-2, was brightly expressed even in the Bcl-2dim population. Addition of interleukin (IL)-2 rescued CD4+ T cells from CD4XL-induced Bcl-2 downmodulation and apoptosis induction. These results support the hypothesis that CD4 ligation by HIV-1 envelope protein in vivo in HIV-infected patients selectively reduces Bcl-2 protein in CD4+ T lymphocytes, thereby facilitating Fas/Fas-ligand triggered apoptosis; furthermore the findings reported expand the rationale for use of IL-2 in HIV disease.

Antibodies with specificity to native gp120 and neutralization activity against primary human immunodeficiency virus type 1 isolates elicited by immunization with oligomeric gp160

Current human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) envelope vaccine candidates elicit high antibody binding titers with neutralizing activity against T-cell line-adapted but not primary HIV-1 isolates. Serum antibodies from these human vaccine recipients were also found to be preferentially directed to linear epitopes within gp120 that are poorly exposed on native gp120. Systemic immunization of rabbits with an affinity-purified oligomeric gp160 protein formulated with either Alhydrogel or monophosphoryl lipid A-containing adjuvants resulted in the induction of high-titered serum antibodies that preferentially bound epitopes exposed on native forms of gp120 and gp160, recognized a restricted number of linear epitopes, efficiently bound heterologous strains of monomeric gp120 and cell surface-expressed oligomeric gp120/gp41, and neutralized several strains of T-cell line-adapted HIV-1. Additionally, those immune sera with the highest oligomeric gp160 antibody binding titers had neutralizing activity against some primary HIV-1 isolates, using phytohemagglutinin-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell targets. Induction of an antibody response preferentially reactive with natively folded gp120/gp160 was dependent on the tertiary structure of the HIV-1 envelope immunogen as well as its adjuvant formulation, route of administration, and number of immunizations administered. These studies demonstrate the capacity of a soluble HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein vaccine to elicit an antibody response capable of neutralizing primary HIV-1 isolates.

Core structure of gp41 from the HIV envelope glycoprotein

The envelope glycoprotein of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) consists of a complex of gp120 and gp41. gp120 determines viral tropism by binding to target-cell receptors, while gp41 mediates fusion between viral and cellular membranes. Previous studies identified an alpha-helical domain within gp41 composed of a trimer of two interacting peptides. The crystal structure of this complex, composed of the peptides N36 and C34, is a six-helical bundle. Three N36 helices form an interior, parallel coiled-coil trimer, while three C34 helices pack in an oblique, antiparallel manner into highly conserved, hydrophobic grooves on the surface of this trimer. This structure shows striking similarity to the low-pH-induced conformation of influenza hemagglutinin and likely represents the core of fusion-active gp41. Avenues for the design/discovery of small-molecule inhibitors of HIV infection are directly suggested by this structure.

In vitro antigen challenge of human antibody libraries for vaccine evaluation: the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope

Human antibody responses, or versions thereof, can be cloned as phage display libraries. In vaccine evaluation, the possibility therefore exists of challenging the human response in vitro, rather than in vivo, in order to assist in establishing the most promising vaccine leads. The characteristics of the antibodies retrieved directly indicate the strengths and weaknesses of the vaccine at the molecular level. We applied this approach to compare recombinant and native human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope preparations. We conclude that recombinant gp160, gp140, and, to a lesser extent, gp120 present epitopes around the CD4 binding site in a conformation different from that of the native multimer and contrary to expected vaccine requirements. Antibodies to the potently neutralizing b12 epitope were selected preferentially from an immune library by purified human immunodeficiency virus type 1 virions. This suggests that b12 is a major epitope on the virions, in contrast to recombinant envelope preparations, in which related, weakly neutralizing epitopes predominate. Although the majority of virions in the preparation used are expected to be noninfective, it appears that they predominantly express a native envelope configuration and would be able to elicit potent neutralizing antibodies.

Differential patterns of T-cell receptor BV-specific activation of T cells by gp120 from different HIV strains

Studies by several groups have suggested that HIV infection in vivo results in a BV-specific alteration of the TCR repertoire and that this might play a role in the pathogenesis of AIDS. Our earlier studies demonstrated that both a crude extract of HIV451 as well as purified gp 160 from HIV451 could specifically activate, in vitro, T cells expressing a common set of TCRBV segments (TCRBV3, 12, 14, 15, and sometimes BV17 and 20) in individuals of disparate HLA type. Furthermore, purified gp120 from HIV451 was shown to have a similar ability to activate T cells, although with a slightly different TCRBV-specific pattern. In order to determine whether gp120 from other HIV strains could similarly activate T cells in a TCRBV-specific pattern, PBMC from HIV seronegative individuals of disparate HLA type were stimulated with gp120 from three strains of HIV (451, IIIB, and MN). The authors found that gp120 from all three strains activate T cells bearing TCRBV2 and BV3 in nearly every individual. T cells expressing other BV segments are also activated, but this is more variable and appears to be unique to each individual. Furthermore, gp120(451) and gp120 from HIVIIIB and HIVMN differ in their ability to activate T cells expressing these other TCRBV segments. These observations suggest that variation in the structure of gp120 and in the genetic and/or environmental background of the individual play an important role in determining which TCRBV segments are 'triggered' by gp120. Furthermore, these observations may have important implications for the rate of disease progression in HIV-infected individuals.

A helical epitope in the C4 domain of HIV glycoprotein 120

The fourth conserved domain of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) envelope, the C4 region of glycoprotein 120 (gp120), is an amphipathic stretch of amino acids that, based on mutational analyses, constitutes a major component of the CD4 binding region in gp120. In the absence of crystallographic and NMR data on C4 in intact gp120, we sought to gain insight into C4's conformation and accessibility in gp120 by taking an immunochemical approach. In this study, a peptomer composed of a repeat peptide of C4 amino acids 419-436 from gp120 of HIV-1MN was synthesized for use as a conformationally constrained immunogen. Circular dichroism studies disclosed that the polymerized peptide, peptomer-(419-436), in 0.01 M Na2HPO4 buffer, pH 7.4, at 25 degrees C contained a dominant alpha-helical structure (53 +/- 1%) compared with 2 +/- 4% alpha-helical content for the monomeric peptide-(419-436). The peptomer in Ribi's adjuvant induced the production of rabbit antibodies that recognized recombinant and native gp120 but, consistent with the literature, the C4 peptide having no conformational constraints did not. The experimental results show that only those antibodies formed against a helical immunogen from C4 will recognize recombinant and native gp120, and, therefore, the results support the notion that C4 is an alpha-helix in gp120.

HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins induce activation of activated protein-1 in CD4+ T cells

Activation of CD4 positive T cells is a primary requirement for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) entry, efficient HIV replication, and progression to AIDS, Utilizing CD4 positive T cell lines and purified T cells from normal individuals, we have demonstrated that native envelope glycoproteins of HIV, gp 160, can induce activation of transcription factor, activated protein-1 (AP-1). The stimulatory effects of gp160 are mediated through the CD4 molecule, since treatment of gp160 with soluble CD4-IgG abrogates its activity, and CD4 negative T cell lines fail to be stimulated with gp160. Immunoprecipitation of the gp 160-induced nuclear extracts with polyclonal antibodies to Fos and Jun proteins indicates that AP-1 complex is comprised of members of these family of proteins. The gp160-induced AP-1 complex is dependent upon protein tyrosine phosphorylation and is protein synthesis-independent. This stimulation can also be abolished by inhibitors of protein kinase C, but it is unaffected by calcium channel blocker or cyclosporine A. This gp160 treatment adversely affects the functional capabilities of T cells: pre-treatment of CD4+ T cells with gp160 for 4 h at 37 degrees C inhibited anti-CD3-induced interleukin-2 secretion. Effects similar to gp160 were seen with anti-CD4 mAb. The aberrant activation of AP-1 by gp160 in CD4 positive T cells could result in up-regulation of cytokines containing AP-1 sites, e.g. interleukin-3 and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and concurrently lead to T cell unresponsiveness by inhibiting interleukin-2 secretion.

Efficient purification and rigorous characterisation of a recombinant gp120 for HIV vaccine studies

A recombinant HIV-1 gp120 (rgp120) was expressed in a permanent Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell line (L761h) that constitutively secretes the product of clone p4 derived from the env gene of HIV-1 isolate GB8. The rgp120 was isolated from cell culture supernatants by a simple, rapid, non-denaturing and efficient purification procedure based on a novel combination of lectin affinity and FPLC ion-exchange chromatography. The purity of the isolated glycoprotein was rigorously confirmed by SDS-PAGE, capillary electrophoresis, laser desorption mass spectrometry, total amino acid analysis and N-terminal amino acid sequencing. The retention of biological activity by the purified rgp120 was assessed by determining the dissociation constant of rgp120 binding to sCD4. After formulation of this highly purified and biologically active rgp120 with "conventional" adjuvants, including types already used in clinical trials of candidate gp120-based HIV vaccines, antibody responses in immunised rabbits were analysed using panels of overlapping synthetic peptides. The consequences of using currently available adjuvants to deliver highly specialised and perhaps conformation-dependent molecules, like HIV gp120, are presented and discussed in the context of HIV vaccine development.

Characterization of a soluble, oligomeric HIV-1 gp160 protein as a potential immunogen

We have assessed the oligomeric structure and antigenic properties of an affinity purified gp160 protein (oligo-gp160) using biosensor technology. Sucrose gradient purification analysis identified the existence of tetrameric, dimeric and monomeric forms of the protein. Reactivity to a broad panel of monoclonal antibodies specific for oligomeric gp160, discontinuous epitopes within monomeric gp120 and several linear epitopes within gp120 (V3) and gp41 was demonstrated. International sera from several countries, where HIV-1 clades A-F are prevalent, including type O from Cameroon, were reactive with oligo-gp160 indicating conserved antigenic epitopes. Enhanced immunologic reactivity per gp160 molecule was obtained with oligo-gp160 as compared to other current HIV-1(IIIB) subunit monomeric envelope gp120/gp160 immunogens suggesting higher HIV-1 envelope protein mimicry. HIV-1 antibodies from sera during acute HIV-1 infection were detectable by oligo-gp160 prior to detection with either a recombinant, monomeric gp120 protein or several commercial HIV-1 screening kits suggesting antibodies sensitive to oligomeric gp160 structure may be present earlier in infection. The oligomeric nature of this gp160 protein preparation and high reactivity with divergent mAbs and HIV-1 sera support the use of this protein as an HIV-1 immunogen.

V beta-specific activation of T cells by the HIV glycoprotein gp 160

Studies by several groups have suggested that HIV infection in vivo results in a V beta-specific alteration of the TCR repertoire and that this might play a role in the pathogenesis of AIDS. However, there is very little agreement as to which V beta segments are affected. In order to circumvent the confounding factors present in vivo we have examined the abilities of both a crude protein extract of HIV and purified gp160 to alter the V beta repertoire of normal T cells in vitro. We find that both a crude extract of HIV as well as gp160 specifically activate T cells expressing a common set of V beta segments (V beta 3, 12, 14, 15, and sometimes V beta 17 and 20) in individuals of disparate HLA type. This set of V beta segments is remarkably similar to those recognized by staphlococcal enterotoxin B and supports the hypothesis that bacterial superantigens produced by opportunistically acquired micro-organisms could have an exacerbating effect in AIDS.

HIV-1 recombinant poxvirus vaccine induces cross-protection against HIV-2 challenge in rhesus macaques

Rhesus macaques were immunized with attenuated vaccinia or canarypox human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) recombinants and boosted with HIV-1 protein subunits formulated in alum. Following challenge with HIV-2SBL6669, three out of eight immunized macaques resisted infection for six months and another exhibited significantly delayed infection, whereas all three naive controls became infected. Immunizations elicited both humoral and cellular immune responses; however, no clear correlates of protection were discerned. Although more extensive studies are now called for, this first demonstration of cross-protection between HIV-1 and -2 suggests that viral variability may not be an insurmountable problem in the design of a global AIDS vaccine.

Mechanism of apoptosis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of HIV-infected patients

Lymphocytes from patients with HIV-infection have been shown to undergo accelerated spontaneous apoptosis. Binding of CD4 molecules by HIV envelope protein gp120 and anti-gp120 antibodies can lead to crosslinking of CD4 molecules (CD4XL) in vitro and conceivably in vivo. We have recently shown that CD4XL in vitro, when performed in unfractioned peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) on normal HIV seronegative donors, is by itself sufficient to induce T cell apoptosis (Blood 82:3392, 1993). To further examine the mechanisms involved in apoptosis, we have examined the expression of Fas antigen (Fas) using 3 color flow cytometry. Fas is a cell surface molecule known to mediate apoptosis-triggering signals. We induced CD4XL in PBMC obtained from normal donors, either by anti-CD4 mAb Leu3a or by HIV-1 envelope protein gp160. PBMC subpopulations were examined for Fas Ag expression and for apoptosis induction by flow cytometry. CD4XL was found to result in increased Fas expression as well as Fas mRNA in lymphocytes and the up-regulated Fas Ag was closely correlated with apoptotic cell death. CD4XL in PBMC also resulted in induction of the cytokines INF-tau and TNF-alpha in the absence of IL-2 and IL-4 secretion. Both these cytokins contributed to Fas Ag up-regulation and antibodies to TNF-alpha and INF-tau abrogated CD4XL-induced Fas up-regulation and T-cell apoptosis. These findings suggest that CD4XL occurring in vivo might play an important role in inducing an abberant cytokine profile (which has been observed in HIV infected individuals) and also in triggering of T-cell apoptosis.

Improved specificity of in vitro anti-HIV antibody production: implications for diagnosis and timing of transmission in infants born to HIV-seropositive mothers

In vitro anti-HIV antibody production (IVAP), initially introduced as a method for diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in infants, has been limited in its application because of poor specificity and sensitivity early in life. The aims of this study were to improve the specificity of the IVAP assay and to evaluate its sensitivity in conjunction with assays of HIV culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and p24 antigen. To prevent false-positive reactions resulting from maternal serum-derived cytophilic anti-HIV IgG, additional preculture and washing steps for peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were introduced that resulted in dramatic improvement in specificity of IVAP. The sensitivity of the revised IVAP at age < 3 months in 20 infected infants was, however, only 25%; of 15 infected infants initially negative in IVAP, 13 became positive at a mean estimated age of 4.4 +/- 1.8 months. When correlated with virological assays, a failure to respond in IVAP at age < 1 month was often associated with negative virological identification, whereas a positive IVAP response at age < 3 months was always associated with positive results in all virological assays. Moreover, conversion from negative IVAP to positive responses occurred subsequent to, and not concurrently with, a positive virological identification of infected infants. The revised IVAP methodology renders this assay potentially useful as an additional tool not only for the diagnosis of HIV infection, but for estimating timing of maternal-infant HIV transmission as well.

Alteration of V3 loop context within the envelope of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 enhances neutralization

Neutralization of a chimeric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1, containing the V3 loop of the MN isolate substituted within the HXB2 envelope, was enhanced up to 20-fold compared with the HXB2 or MN parental isolates by human HIV-positive sera. MN V3 loop-specific monoclonal antibodies were better able to recognize the chimeric virus compared with MN, staining a greater percentage of infected cells and exhibiting slight increases in relative affinity with a concomitant increase in neutralization titer. Competition analysis revealed that enhanced neutralization by human HIV-positive sera of the chimera was attributable in some cases to better reactivity with the linear V3 loop epitope but in others to conformational loop epitopes or previously cryptic or poorly recognized epitopes outside the loop region. Mice primed with a vaccinia virus-chimeric envelope recombinant and boosted with gp160 developed a spectrum of antibodies different from that of mice similarly immunized with HXB2 or MN recombinants or that of naturally infected humans. The chimeric envelope elicited antibodies with enhanced binding to the native MN V3 loop; however, the sites seen by the BALB/c mice were not neutralizing epitopes. Nevertheless, similar to the observations made with use of human sera, the chimeric virus was more readily neutralized by all of the immune mouse sera, an effect apparently mediated by non-V3 loop epitopes. These studies illustrate that not only the V3 loop sequence and conformation but also its context within the viral envelope influence neutralization.

Enzyme immunoassay using native envelope glycoprotein (gp160) for detection of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 antibodies

An enzyme immunoassay using the purified native gp160 for the detection of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) antibody was developed. This assay was determined to be highly specific, since (i) 157 serum samples that were confirmed negative by Western blot (immunoblot) (WB) were negative, (ii) 41 serum samples from populations with medical conditions that might cause nonspecific assay reactivity were all negative, and (iii) all 15 serum samples that showed false-positive reactions in one or more commercial HIV-1 screening tests were negative. The assay gave 100% specificity with a randomly selected and unlinked panel of 1,000 serum samples from healthy blood donors. The sensitivity of the assay was assessed by testing 238 samples confirmed as HIV-1 antibody positive by a standardized WB assay. All 238 serum samples (100%) were reactive in the native gp160 assay. In a dilution panel of 14 weakly WB-positive serum samples, 7 samples reacted two-to fivefold more strongly in the gp160 assay than in a virus lysate-based assay; the remaining 7 samples gave comparable reactivities in the two tests. The reactivities of 13 of these 14 serum samples in the gp160 assay were higher than in a commercial enzyme immunoassay that uses a recombinant envelope protein as the antigen. The native gp160 assay was more sensitive to identify seroconversion. In a well-characterized panel of sequential blood samples from a seroconverter, the new assay detected antibodies at least one sample ahead of the other commercial assays tested.