Human immunodeficiency virus type 1-specific immunity after genetic immunization is enhanced by modification of Gag and Pol expression.

Immunity to human immunodeficiency virus virion-like structures or a polyprotein has been examined after DNA immunization with Rev-independent expression vectors. A Gag-Pol fusion protein stimulated cytotoxic T lymphocyte and antibody responses to Gag and Pol, while a Gag-Pol pseudoparticle did not elicit substantial Pol responses. This fusion protein may be useful for AIDS vaccines.