This invention generally relates to peptides useful for medical diagnosis and treatment of pathogenic disorders. More specifically, the invention relates to immunostimulatory peptides which can stimulate the production of therapeutically beneficial cytokines and, in combination with antibodies against human pathogens such as the immunodeficiency virus (HIV), inhibit replication of such pathogens. The peptides interact synergistically with pathogen-directed antibodies without producing or sustaining serious side-effects such as inflammation, and provide the potential for treatment modalities that are non-specific with respect to pathogen and cell type. Therefore, the peptides of the present invention have wide applicability with respect to medical treatment of pathogen-mediated infections, and the potential to enhance well-being.
