Rome (Fides Service) - The President of Italy Superior Health Institute Enrico Garaci has announced the start of clinical testing of phase 1 of an anti-HIV/AIDS vaccine based on the protein TAT. Testing on humans has been authorised by the Italian Ministry of Health after the completion of procedures demanded by European norms. Testing on humans of the vaccine prepared by the Retrovirus department of the Laboratory of Virology of the Superior Health Institute, will be carried out in three clinics in Rome and Milan.
The objective of this first stage of testing is to demonstrate that the vaccine is innocuous for humans, that is it has no toxic effects, and to evaluate the immune response induced by vaccination. Two tests will be carried out: one preventive, that is tested on healthy humans, for which 32 volunteers not at risk will be enlisted; the second therapeutic, tested on infected humans for which 56 volunteers not receiving antiretroviral therapy will be enlisted.
This first stage of testing will consist of 6 months of treatment followed by 6 of observation at the end of which the ISS will publish its first results. Those willing to take part in the test may call ISS at 800-861061, for information. (AP) (25/11/2003 Fides Service; lines:22 words:224)

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	See info on TAT in Italian