Immune Response to HIV-1 Infection and Vaccine Development

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection represents an ongoing challenging public health epidemic. This is in part because of the socioeconomic burden on low-income countries, lack of access to highly active antiretroviral therapy and other medical treatment, and progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) over the course of years. To control or eradicate this virus, a prophylactic vaccine must be generated. Despite several decades of research, development, and clinical trials, there is not yet an effective immunization. This chapter focuses on unique aspects of the immune response to this infection, challenges of vaccine development, key clinical trials, and promising vaccine strategies.