Antigenicity and immunogenicity of the membrane proximal external region of the HIV-1 envelope protein gp41

Two of the six HIV-1 broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody (bNt MAbs) isolated so far bind epitopes located in the viral envelope protein gp41. 2F5 and 4E10 neutralize viruses from a broad range of different isolates. Although gp41 is a transmembrane protein, the study of its antigenicity and immunogenicity in the context of membrane has been largely ignored. The goal of this research is to develop novel immunogen(s) for the generation of protective bNtAbs that specifically mimic the biological activities of 2F5 and 4E10.