HIV-1 Env-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte responses in exposed, uninfected Kenyan sex workers: a prospective analysis.

The prospective significance of HIV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses in highly exposed, persistently seronegative populations is unknown. In 1996-1997 we screened for CTL responses against HIV clade B Env in 39 recently enrolled Kenyan female sex workers, and followed these women prospectively. Annual HIV incidence was 5.8%. CTL were independently associated with age and recent HIV-1 exposure,but were not prospectively associated with protection in a multivariable model that included HIV-1 exposure and duration of sex work.