Description of Invention:
This technology relates to HIV antigenic constructs with flexible, heterologous linkers joining gp120 and gp41. The HIV-1 envelope Glycoprotein (Env) undergoes conformational changes while driving entry. The inventors developed these constructs to mimic some of the intermediate Env conformations. Tethered molecules of the invention were stable and potently inhibited cell fusion. Both gp120 and gp41 contain epitopes that may be necessary for the immune system to mount a robust and effective immune response to HIV. By connecting the two components, the current invention stabilizes the exposure of conserved epitopes, thereby increasing the chances that antibodies will form that react with these sites.
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-039-2002/0 --
U.S. Utility Application No. 10/506,651 filed 16 Nov 2004
Licensing Status: Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.
Collaborative Research Opportunity:
The National Cancer Institute's Nanobiology Program is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop or evaluate immune response constructs. Please contact John D. Hewes, Ph.D. at 301-435-3121 or hewesj@mail.nih.gov for more information.
For Additional Information Please Contact: Susan Ano Ph.D.
NIH Office of Technology Transfer
6011 Executive Blvd, Suite 325
Rockville, MD 20852-3804
Phone: (301) 435-5515
Email: anos@mail.nih.gov
Fax: (301) 402-0220
