A vaccine has been developed that protects non-human primates (monkeys) from SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus), the monkey equivalent of HIV. Researchers reported in the journal Nature that this breakthrough could eventually lead to a vaccine for humans, protecting them from HIV. Louis Picker, M.D., from the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute (VGTI) in Oregon, and team produced a vaccine that programs monkeys’ immune systems to respond more rapidly to the presence of SIV. Researchers from the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative and the National Cancer Institute-Fredick were also involved in this research.
