Scientists at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and other institutions conducted experiments on animals for an HIV vaccine. It is an experimental mRNA vaccine based on the same technology that Pfizer's and Moderna's vaccines are based on.
The experiments were conducted on mice and primates (non-human). The results that followed were promising as the novel vaccine triggered the formation of the desirable antibodies. Even the cell-mediated immune response was observed against an HIV-like virus.
The vaccines when given to Rhesus Macaques followed by several boosters had a 79% lower risk of exposure of infection by simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) when compared to unvaccinated animals.
This experimental mRNA vaccine works just like the COVID-19 vaccines. But, unlike COVID vaccines, it carries genetic codes for making HIV proteins, Gag and Env.
Dr. Lusso, one of the scientists involved, said that they are now refining the vaccine protocol to improve the quality and quantity of the VLPs (virus-like particles). He further adds that it may increase the efficacy of the vaccine. It would also decrease the number of prime doses and boosters that are needed to produce a desirable immune response. He ended his statement by saying that if the vaccine is confirmed safe and effective, they would conduct a Phase 1 trial in healthy adult volunteers.
NIAID director Anthony Fauci said, "Despite nearly four decades of effort by the global research community, an effective vaccine to prevent HIV remains an elusive goal.” He further said that this experimental vaccine combines many features that might overcome the shortcomings of other HIV vaccines (experimental).
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