Human immunodeficiency virus gp120 glycoprotein detected by a monoclonal antibody to a synthetic peptide.

A chemically synthesized peptide corresponding to the amino acid sequence 503-532 of gp160 of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was used to generate monoclonal antibodies reactive with the env glycoprotein gp120. One monoclonal antibody, 120-1, was isolated that reacted with the peptide and with HIV antigen(s). Western blot analysis showed reactivity with two bands of 120 kDa and 88 kDa. 120-1 reacted in indirect immunofluorescence with 15-20% of infected human T cell line A3.01 as early as 4 days post in vitro infection, 2-3 days prior to detectable reverse transcriptase activity in supernatant fluids.