NOVEL PEPTIDES ASSOCIATED WITH THE CD4 BINDING REGION OF GP120 AND THEIR METHODS OF USE

摘要

Novel synthetic peptides and analogs thereof are provided that represent a neutralizing epitope in the external envelope glycoprotein (gp120) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that is purportedly involved in the binding of this molecule to its cellular receptor, CD4. Also provided are methods of generating antibodies reactive with or containing the internal image of the neutralizing epitope. The peptides or antibodies may be used in diagnostic immunoassays, as vaccines or in immunotherapy.