Table 1.

Paradoxes of the Antibody Response to HIV-1

In spite of immune pathology, the neutralization response is generally higher and broader during infection than after immunization with gp120.

Cross-neutralizing responses are slow to develop (months, years), slower than other Abs to both Gag and Env, but often directed to single, dominant epitopes.

NAb titers are generally lower in patients with undetectable than in those with high viral loads.

During clinical progression Ab levels to Gag, but not Env, decline. Absorption by Ag is not responsible. Are Gag and Env responses regulated differently?

Ab, antibody; NAb, neutralizing antibody; Ag, antigen.