Zolla-Pazner et al.
Jul 24, 2019
This review article discusses the role of V1V2-specific antibodies (Abs) in controlling or protecting against HIV, SIV, and SHIV infections, with a focus on the immune response triggered by vaccines.
This review article discusses the role of V1V2-specific antibodies (Abs) in controlling or protecting against HIV, SIV, and SHIV infections, with a focus on the immune response triggered by vaccines. It summarizes how the V1V2 domain of the HIV-1 gp120 envelope protein has been associated with a reduced risk of infection, particularly through the development of V2-specific antibodies, which are shown to mediate both neutralizing and non-neutralizing antiviral activities.
Key findings:
V1V2-specific antibodies: The V2-specific Abs, including those recognizing the V2p and V2i epitopes, have been correlated with protection from HIV and related viruses. These Abs are often non-neutralizing but play a significant role in controlling viral infections by inducing immune responses such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-mediated viral lysis.
Vaccine-induced responses: Several vaccine studies in humans and nonhuman primates (NHPs) show that the induction of V2p and V2i antibodies is associated with protection from HIV and SHIV infections. This finding challenges the traditional reliance on neutralizing antibodies and supports the idea that non-neutralizing antibodies can be critical for vaccine efficacy.
Potential for Vaccine Development: The evidence highlights the importance of targeting the V1V2 region of the envelope in future vaccine strategies, as these antibodies not only prevent infection but also contribute to long-term viral control.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes that antibodies induced by vaccines targeting the V1V2 region of the HIV envelope protein can offer protection from HIV infection, underscoring the importance of non-neutralizing antibody responses in the development of effective vaccines.