Control of a Mucosal Challenge and Prevention of AIDS by a Multiprotein DNA/MVA Vaccine

TLDR

Heterologous prime/boost regimens can elicit high levels of immune responses. Both the DNA and rMVA components of the vaccine expressed multiple immunodeficiency virus proteins. DNA priming followed by an rMVA booster controlled a highly pathogenic immunodeficiency virus challenge in rhesus macaques, with two DNA inoculations at weeks 0 and 8 and a single rMVA booster at week 24 effectively controlling an intrarectal challenge 7 months later, suggesting that a simple multiprotein DNA/MVA vaccine could help control the AIDS epidemic.

Abstract

Heterologous prime/boost regimens have the potential for raising high levels of immune responses. Here we report that DNA priming followed by a recombinant modified vaccinia Ankara (rMVA) booster controlled a highly pathogenic immunodeficiency virus challenge in a rhesus macaque model. Both the DNA and rMVA components of the vaccine expressed multiple immunodeficiency virus proteins. Two DNA inoculations at 0 and 8 weeks and a single rMVA booster at 24 weeks effectively controlled an intrarectal challenge administered 7 months after the booster. These findings provide hope that a relatively simple multiprotein DNA/MVA vaccine can help to control the acquired immune deficiency syndrome epidemic.