The present invention relates generally to modified secreted viral proteins, to the genes which express these proteins and to antibodies produced against such proteins, and to the use of these materials in diagnostic and vaccine applications. In particular, the present invention describes deletion of the transmembrane region only and retention of at least part of the cytoplasmic domain itself or fusion with at least part of an alternate cytoplasmic domain. The result will generally be the secretion of proteins which are normally membrane-bound (nonsecretory). This invention greatly increases the efficiency of secretion of the derivative protein. Specific viral proteins of interest include, but are not limited to, those from CMV, HSV, EBV, VZV, HCV, HIV, and influenza.