Abstract: The invention provides a method for identifying peptides for use in increasing a cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) response to an antigen. The method comprises the steps of comparing the amino acid sequence of the VH and/or VL portions of an anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibody to the amino acid sequence of an antigen to identify regions of homology between the Ab2 and the antigen, and to further identify an HLA binding motif in a homologous region. The identified homologous region which comprises an HLA binding motif defines a peptide sequence that is useful for stimulating a CTL response. Also provided are peptides identified by the method, and a method of using the peptides to stimulate a CTL response in an individual.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for identifying peptides for use in increasing a cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) response to an antigen. The method comprises the steps of comparing the amino acid sequence of the VH and/or VL portions of an anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibody to the amino acid sequence of an antigen to identify regions of homology between the Ab2 and the antigen, and to further identify an HLA binding motif in a homologous region. The identified homologous region which comprises an HLA binding motif defines a peptide sequence that is useful for stimulating a CTL response. Also provided are peptides identified by the method, and a method of using the peptides to stimulate a CTL response in an individual.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for the creation of peptide antigens comprising epitopes with at least a first modification comprising a shortened or lengthened amino acid side chain. By extension or shortening of the side chain with CH3/CH2 groups, for example, made by computer assisted modeling of the tumor antigen (peptide) bound in the MHC-I-groove, immunogenicity can be improved with minimal modification of adjacent tertiary structure, thereby avoiding cross-reactivity. Provided by the invention are methods of creating such antigens, as well as methods for therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of various conditions comprising administration of the antigens.