Our immune system has been shaped by constant challenge from the microbial world, a concept that has inspired our cover image this month. In keeping with this theme, on page 675, Michael Katze and colleagues discuss the 'arms race' between viruses and the host interferon response; they propose new approaches to therapeutic intervention that will help the host to gain the upper hand.

For some infections, such as HIV, it seems that the virus is a clear winner of the evolutionary race — in spite of the best efforts of innate and adaptive immunity. These infections present a tough challenge for vaccine design. At present, HIV-vaccine efforts are focused on CD8+ T cells, but have we been too quick to forget about antibodies? In an Opinion article on page 706, Dennis Burton reassesses the antiviral activities of antibodies in the context of a complex immune response that comprises many components. He argues that successful antiviral vaccines of the future will need antibodies, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells to work together.

Enjoying our latest content?
Log in or create an account to continue

  • Access the most recent journalism from Nature's award-winning team
  • Explore the latest features & opinion covering groundbreaking research
Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account
Continue with Google
Continue with ORCiD