Peptides of human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2) and in vitro diagnostic methods and kits employing the peptides for the detection of HIV-2

摘要

A novel lentivirus, designated the human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2.sub.ROD), was isolated from West African patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). A recombinant lambda phage library was constructed from HIV-2.sub.ROD -infected CEM genomic DNA. Overlapping molecular clones were obtained and the nucleotide sequence of the complete 9.5-kilobase (kb) HIV-2.sub.ROD genome ascertained. The genetic organization of HIV-2 is analogous to that of other retroviruses and consists of the 5'LTR-gag-pol-central region-env- nef-3'LTR. The central region also encodes for the regulatory proteins Tat and Rev, as well as the ancillary proteins Vif, Vpr, and Vpx. The proteins encoded by this proviral clone will provide novel immunologic, biochemic, and diagnostic reagents useful for the detection of HIV-2.