EPITOPE-DRIVEN HIV VACCINE TARGETING DENDRITIC CELLS

Not Available A hapten based upon the molecular structure of a metabolite of sulfur mustard (HD), namley bis(2-acetylamino-2-carboxyethylthio)ethyl) sulfoximine, (dimercapturate)2S(O)Nhwill be synthesized. This will be conjugated with proteins to yield the antigenic haptens (dimercapturate)2S(O)N-HSA,BSA and-PTG. Preliminary studies will be carried out using the know (CH3)2S(O)NH. A phosphorus atom marker unit will be covalently attached to each hapten protein conjugate and the hapten: protein ratio will be determined by 31p NMR. A hapten will be synthesized using the terminal carboxyl group of the same metabolic substrate as the site for conjugation to BSA. The antigenic haptens will be used for the production of monoclonal antibodies, which in tLLm will be applied to the development of a noninvasive immunodiagnostic test for exposure to sulfur mustard. Such a test device would be use fill for the detection of sulfur mustards used in chemical warfare agents in combat or by terrorists. Commercial applications would result from use of the detection device forensically by local, state and federal agencies. BENEFITS: Device for sulfur mustard(HD) fits a need for early detection of this chemical agent in the battlefield as well as in terrorist activities. This device would be acquired by local, state, and other government agencies. Foreign governments involved in combatting terrorism would be candidates for this method.