The invention provides HSV antigens that are useful for the prevention andtreatment of HSV infection. Disclosed herein are antigens and/or theirconstituent epitopes confirmed to be recognized by T-cells derived fromherpetic lesions or from uterine cervix. T-cells having specificity forantigens of the invention have demonstrated cytotoxic activity against cellsloaded with virally-encoded peptide epitopes, and in many cases, against cellsinfected with HSV. The identification of immunogenic antigens responsible forT-cell specificity provides improved antiviral therapeutic and prophylacticstrategies. Compositions containing antigens or polynucleotides encodingantigens of the invention provide effectively targeted vaccines for preventionand treatment of HSV infection.
