Abstract: A non-toxic immunogenic compound, which may be administered to humans, is derived from an HIV-1, HIV-2, HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 viral regulatory protein by chemical processing using a coupling agent such as an aldehyde, or from a carrier protein activated by pre-processing using an aldehyde. This compound is capable of being recognized by antibodies to the viral regulatory protein and retains sufficient immunogenic properties to produce antibodies that neutralize or block the native protein, while losing at least 50% of the toxic biological properties of the native protein.

Abstract: Cytokines, which are biologically inactive in humans but remain immunogenic, are used in pharmaceutical compositions to promote a neutralizing immune response against native cytokines when administered to a subject in need thereof to treat homeostatic conditions and disorders associated with an overproduction of cytokines.