Control of a mucosal challenge and prevention of AIDS by a multiprotein DNA/MVA vaccine

Heterologous prime/boost regimens have the potential for raising high Level s of immune responses. Here we report that DNA priming followed by a recomb inant modified vaccinia Ankara (rMVA) booster controlled a highly pathogeni c immunodeficiency virus challenge in a rhesus macaque model. Both the DNA and rMVA components of the vaccine expressed multiple immunodeficiency viru s 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 si mple multiprotein DNA/MVA vaccine can help to control the acquired immune d eficiency syndrome epidemic.