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Through extensive study of the characteristics of HIV-1 subtypes in Africa, especially HIV-1C, and the genetics of immunity in African populations, Institute researchers are making critical findings that will assist in the development of vaccine designs for Africa.
Vaccine Models for Southern Africa
Several vaccines that use different pieces of HIV-1C are in various stages of development at the Institute. There are three vaccine designs that are in consideration for safety trials. The naked DNA plasmid vaccine involves putting HIV genes into plasmids, tiny circles of DNA that bacteria use to swap genetic material among themselves. The vaccinia vector design involves using a harmless pox virus vector that is a modified version of a vaccine used for smallpox vaccination. The modified bacterial toxoid vaccine uses a piece of bacterial toxin that is particularly effective at inserting small proteins into human cells.
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Maiteko a Tshireletso HIV Vaccine Initiative
Along with the laboratory investigations dedicated to developing a safe and effective HIV vaccine for southern Africa, the Botswana–Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership is currently collaborating with local, regional and international institutions and organizations to develop the necessary infrastructure and community awareness to conduct vaccine trials in Botswana.
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