The invention provides HSV antigens that are useful for the prevention and treatment
of HSV infection. Disclosed herein are epitopes confirmed to be recognized by T-cells
derived from herpetic lesions. T-cells having specificity for antigens of the invention
have demonstrated cytotoxic activity against cells loaded with virally-encoded
peptide epitopes, and in many cases, against cells infected with HSV. The identification
of immunogenic antigens responsible for T-cell specificity provides improved anti-viral
therapeutic and prophylactic strategies. Compositions containing antigens or polynucleotides
encoding antigens of the invention provide effectively targeted vaccines for prevention
and treatment of HSV infection.