PROGRESS IN AIDS VACCINE DEVELOPMENT

Because of a unique combination of challenges facing human immunodeficiency virus vaccine developers, a number of traditional and novel vaccine designs are being evaluated essentially in parallel. Monomeric proteins, poxvirus vectors, peptides, and particle-based candidate vaccines have entered or will soon enter human trials. Other designs are at earlier stages of development. All candidates evaluated to date in phase I/II human trials have proven safe and immunogenic. One or more of the most promising designs will soon progress to 'test of concept' clinical trials to determine efficacy.