Developing an AIDS Vaccine: Need, Uncertainty, Hope

Since the identification of HIV-1 as the etiologic agent of AIDS, remarkable scientific efforts have resulted in a deep understanding of the virus and the disease it causes. In all infectious diseases, the best approach in controlling the spread of infection is through development and implementation of an effective vaccine that would prevent the occurrence of infection in new hosts upon exposure. The challenge to develop an effective vaccine to stem the spread of HIV-1 infection in multiple human population is daunting, however, universal agreement to address the key scientific challenges, combined with renewed research efforts, offers a great potential for accelerating the successful development of HIV-1 vaccines.