Non-pathogenic strains of hiv-1 and methods for detecting same

摘要

The present invention relates generally to non-pathogenic strains of HIV-1 and methods for detecting same. The methods of the present invention are particularly useful in determining the likelihood of an individual who is seropositive for HIV-1 developing AIDS or AIDS-related symptoms. The present invention further contemplates therapeutic compositions for the treatment and prophylaxis of AIDS and AIDS-related disorders. Another aspect of the present invention is directed to strains of HIV-1 capable of synthesizing a modified Nef protein or having a wild-type Nef protein modified after synthesis thereby rendering those strains of HIV-1 substantially non-pathogenic.