Characterization of the Immunodominant Regions within gp41 of env Gene of HIV in Pakistan

Abstract

Objective of the present study was to characterize the immunodominant sequences of gp41 in HIV strain in Pakistani population so that vaccine may be prepared based upon these regions.A total of 25 specimens were collected from HIV patients of different areas of Pakistan. The viral RNA was isolated using QIAamp MinElute® Spin Kit manufactured by Quiagen, California, USA. RT-PCR was done for amplification of the required region and confirmed by gel electrophoresis. The nucleotides of the required regions were sequenced using Big Dye terminator.Less than 20% of the specimens had mutations in immunodominant regions, so it may be concluded that immunodominant regions of gp41 in HIV strain in Pakistani population are conservatives and vaccine based upon these regions may prove active immunization against the disease.