Gag-specific T-helper cells increase the Env antibody response in mice after booster immun-izations with virus-like particles (VLPs) containing Gag and Env by the intrastructural help mechanism. The aim of the current project is to exploit this intrastructural help to modulate the antibody response to HIV Env by heterologous T helper cells. Mice will be immunized against heterologous antigens prior to booster immunizations with VLPs containing the heterologous antigens inside. By using different modes of priming against the heterologous antigens, we aim to modulate the humoral immune response to the HIV Env with a particular focus on inducing mucosal immune responses
DFG Programme
CRC/Transregios
