State policies aimed at reducing discrimination and increasing social acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals are more effective among white adults in using HIV prevention measures, but their impact is weaker among Black and Latino populations. Practical steps to expand resources and community-based prevention services may be necessary to add...
A new study by UC Riverside scientists has identified MAPK14, a brain protein, as the driving force behind neuroHIV damage, which causes dementia, neuropathy, and memory problems. By targeting this protein, researchers hope to develop a treatment for neuroHIV, a condition affecting millions worldwide.
A Northwestern University study found that viral reservoirs in a proxy animal model of HIV share features with immune-suppressive tumor microenvironments, suggesting that future HIV cure strategies may benefit from traditional cancer therapy approaches. By examining the broader tissue microenvironment, researchers identified shared bio...
A noninferiority randomized clinical trial found that an alternative first-line regimen containing doravirine, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate produced less weight gain than a combination of dolutegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. The regimen was noninferior for viral suppression at 48 weeks.
The University of Virginia has joined SPARK GLOBAL to leverage resources and expertise in accelerating the development of new medicines. This collaboration aims to reduce time from lab discoveries to clinic trials, delivering tangible healthcare solutions to patients.
A study found that adolescents aware of their state's minor consent laws were more likely to seek and receive HIV and other sexually transmitted infections testing. Teens who accurately knew their legal capacity to consent to healthcare services had higher testing rates.
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes identified hundreds of human genes influencing HIV infection and two potent antiviral proteins, PI16 and PPID. These proteins block HIV's entry into T cells or limit its ability to replicate within the cell.
Researchers at Linköping University found that an existing medication can restore immune cell function in people with HIV. The study showed that the medication blocks type I interferon and restored the function of immune cells, potentially improving health outcomes.
A new study reveals two specific genes that act like security locks to keep the virus asleep in some individuals who naturally control HIV even after stopping therapy. Metformin, a common diabetes drug, can activate one of these locks to keep the virus in its dormant state.
A newly described HIV antibody targets the V3 glycan site in a different manner than previously known antibodies, remaining effective against virus variants that are resistant to classical V3 antibodies. This breakthrough supports antibody therapy combinations that neutralize the virus more effectively.
Researchers found that adding spironolactone to standard HIV treatment can significantly reduce the amount of virus in the bloodstream and decrease signs of inflammation. This combination also helps quiet viral activity without removing infected cells, suggesting a potential path to hasten suppression and mitigate chronic inflammation.
A research team led by Dr. Marina Lusic identified RNA:DNA hybrids as molecular signposts for the virus, providing new therapeutic approaches for controlling HIV reservoirs. Removing Aquarius enzyme significantly decreases integration rate and shifts to R-loop-poor regions.
Scientists at Wertheim UF Scripps Institute have been awarded $15.7 million in new grants to advance projects on brain biology, infectious diseases, and cancer research over the next five years. The grants will help develop innovative solutions to some of medicine's most difficult challenges.
A new study shows that delivering a single injection of gene therapy at birth may offer years-long protection against HIV. The treatment uses an adeno-associated virus to deliver instructions to muscle cells, which produce broadly neutralizing antibodies capable of neutralizing multiple strains of HIV.
Researchers have uncovered a key reason why HIV remains difficult to cure, revealing that subtle variations in the Rev-RRE axis influence viral replication and latency reactivation. Understanding this regulatory system could help develop strategies to flush out the dormant virus and eliminate it for good.
Researchers found that patients taking HIV drugs called NRTIs are substantially less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by Jayakrishna Ambati, analyzed data from two large health insurance databases and determined a significant reduction in Alzheimer's risk among patients on NRTIs.
A new, easier-to-administer sustained-release formulation of flucytosine has entered Phase II clinical trials in Malawi and Tanzania. The trial aims to address the growing concern of cryptococcal meningitis, a major health threat to people with weakened immune systems, particularly those with advanced HIV.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University develop a disposable microchip technology for HIV-1 self-testing during acute phase or viral rebound. The device is expected to be affordable and provide results within 40 minutes.
The researchers have created a way to deliver certain drugs in higher doses with less pain by injecting them as a suspension of tiny crystals. This approach can enable long-term delivery of contraceptives or treatments for diseases such as HIV, reducing the need for frequent injections.
A machine learning model developed by a team of researchers from Washington University in St. Louis can accurately predict which adolescents with HIV are at risk of nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy. The model incorporates socio-behavioral and economic factors, including economic stability, education, and family structure.
A new dataset captures over 170 years of US state laws governing minors' legal capacity to independently consent to sexual health services without parental involvement. This increase in states allowing minors to consent has substantial limitations, including complexity and neglect of confidentiality concerns.
A new study by NYU researchers found that adults living with HIV in Malawi are more than twice as likely to also have dementia compared to those without HIV. The study sheds light on the significant burden of dementia among people living with HIV in resource-poor settings.
A new study by researchers at UCSF has found that long-acting injectable treatments can be transformative for patients who struggle to take daily HIV pills, resulting in undetectable viral loads and improved health outcomes. The treatment approach could help stop the spread of HIV by keeping more patients from being infectious.
Climate change is associated with poorer HIV prevention outcomes, including reduced testing and increased risk behaviors, leading to higher new infections and poorer treatment adherence. Researchers identified links between extreme weather events and HIV-related challenges, emphasizing the need for innovative interventions and strategies.
The updated recommendations provide a comprehensive framework for healthcare professionals to deliver better care and move closer to ending the HIV epidemic. The guidelines emphasize tailored antiretroviral therapy, effective HIV prevention strategies like pre-exposure prophylaxis, and comprehensive care for people living with HIV.
The 2024 guidelines provide updated recommendations for treating and preventing HIV in adults, highlighting new approaches to address disparities and inequities in access to care. These tools aim to help end the HIV epidemic by improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission rates.
A new study from Tulane University finds that historical race-based lending practices are still impacting health today, linking discriminatory policies to 15% longer delays in achieving viral suppression of HIV. This delay can impact individual health outcomes and public health efforts to curb the spread of HIV.
Sweden has surpassed the UNAIDS and WHO targets for the HIV epidemic, with 96% diagnosed, 99% on treatment, and 98% having undetectable virus levels. The country's effective infrastructure and comprehensive data collection have made it possible to reach these ambitious targets.
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine reports the first sustained remission of HIV infection following a bone marrow transplant in a patient without the CCR5-delta 32 mutation. Despite remaining susceptible to HIV, the virus remains undetectable nearly three years after antiretroviral treatment was stopped.
A new study led by UMass Amherst and Tufts Medical Center will provide HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for people with opioid use disorders who are incarcerated. The study aims to increase the number of incarcerated individuals tested and treated, addressing a critical gap in healthcare access.
A new drug has shown promise in clearing HIV from the brain by targeting infected cells and reducing viral load. The treatment, BLZ945, successfully cleared the virus from brain tissue, providing a potential new avenue for HIV treatment.
A study found that providing resistance tests for HIV patients has no significant impact on treatment outcomes. Instead, daily medication adherence is key to improving treatment success. The researchers suggest prioritizing resources for programs focusing on children and adolescents' specific needs.
A recent Indonesian study investigates the relationship between coping mechanisms and self-stigma among people living with HIV. The research found that most participants reported low coping strategies and high levels of self-stigma, revealing a moderate correlation.
Researchers compared HIV reservoirs between patients with early and late treatment initiation. Early treatment was associated with faster decay of virus reservoirs, indicating a more effective immune clearance mechanism. This study supports the potential for early interventions to combat HIV by enabling an eventual cure.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified promising links between common HIV drugs and a reduced incidence of Alzheimer's disease. The study analyzed over 225,000 medical records and found that RT inhibitor exposure was associated with a statistically significant reduced incidence and prevalence of AD.
A US study found that medical cannabis enrollment increased overall between 2016 and 2022, but decreased in states with legalized recreational use. The number of patients using cannabis for medical purposes has risen by over 600% since 2016.
A new nanofluidic implant has been shown to deliver an HIV drug with increased potency compared to existing oral medications, providing a potential breakthrough in addressing treatment nonadherence. The device is intended for long-term controlled release and avoids repeated systemic treatment, which can lead to adverse side effects.
Researchers successfully demonstrate CRISPR-Cas gene editing technology to eliminate all traces of the HIV virus from infected cells in laboratory settings. The study aims to develop a robust and safe combinatorial regimen to target diverse HIV strains across various cellular contexts.
A clinical trial shows four children achieved HIV remission, with one child remaining in remission for over a year. The study suggests that very early treatment initiation may limit HIV's ability to establish reservoirs and increases the prospect of HIV remission.
A new study shows long-acting antiretroviral medications are safe and effective for people with HIV who struggle with daily oral regimens. The treatments provided better viral suppression than daily oral ART, with a lower risk of discontinuation due to adverse events.
A study by Texas Biomed researchers identified mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, and inguinal lymph nodes as the leading sources of HIV rebound infection. The findings have implications for potential new therapies targeting these tissues to prevent viral spread.
A new study using an animal model has identified a window of opportunity for early treatment to promote long-term control and remission of HIV infection. Starting treatment four weeks after infection promotes viral control after discontinuation of treatment, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers are shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying HIV replication and viral integration, opening new avenues for tackling the virus. Discoveries suggest that targeting the cell nucleus and harnessing innate immunity may be key to blocking viral replication and persistence.
A new study published in Nature Microbiology suggests that providing easy access to HIV treatment and care for heterosexual men could rapidly cut transmission to their female partners. Closing the viral suppression gap in men is estimated to halve rates of new infections among women and eliminate gender disparities.
A multinational study found that early treatment of newborns with HIV can lead to biomarkers indicative of potential medication-free remission by 2 years of age. Researchers hope to limit or prevent the establishment of viral reservoirs, increasing time in remission without daily ART.
New HIV diagnoses rose by 31% in the EU/EEA in 2022, with migrants accounting for 49% of cases. Ukrainian refugees made up a significant proportion of new diagnoses, with women disproportionately affected. The increase highlights the need for tailored early testing and treatment approaches to address this growing public health threat.
Experts call for urgent measures to address discrimination against patients fleeing war or conflict zones, those with serious mental illnesses, and frail elderly patients. Guidelines for treating advanced breast cancer should prioritize patient preferences and involve multidisciplinary care teams.
Researchers at UCLA and Charles Drew University are receiving NIH funding to tackle the HIV epidemic, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as youth, transgender individuals, and Black Americans. The projects will explore innovative implementation strategies to enhance community engagement and support high-quality services.
A UMass Amherst study explores gender differences in HIV-related stigma and social support among people living with HIV experiencing food insecurity in the Dominican Republic. Women described outright rejection, violence, and disempowerment, while men's experiences were more subtle.
A new study led by UCL researchers finds that integrated health care for chronic high-burden conditions like diabetes and hypertension is feasible and cost-effective. The study showed that integrated care was associated with high levels of retention in care, no adverse effect on viral suppression among people with HIV, and cost-saving ...
A large international study led by Danish researchers may have brought us closer to a cure for HIV. The study found that patients who received monoclonal antibodies before pausing their regular treatment experienced a period of virus suppression, and some even saw their immune system partially or completely suppress the virus.
Research from Boston Medical Center found that providing pragmatic support improved treatment outcomes for people with HIV who inject drugs in St. Petersburg, Russia. The odds of achieving viral load suppression at 12 months were 3 times higher for participants randomized to the intervention group.
A novel CRISPR-based gene-editing treatment, EBT-001, effectively removes SIV from the genomes of non-human primates without off-target effects. The study's findings support the development of a cure for HIV/AIDS in humans and pave the way for ongoing clinical trials.
A new drug formulation designed for treating children with HIV has shown safety, tolerability, and effectiveness in a study published in The Lancet HIV. The formulation contains three medications and was found to suppress HIV levels below 200 copies/mL in 98% of participants.
Researchers found a novel region in the genome associated with spontaneous control of HIV in populations of African ancestries. CHD1L, a protein involved in DNA repair, shows genetic variation specific to these populations and limits HIV replication in white blood cells.
Researchers have found that gut health is the main determinant of systemic inflammation and disease progression in HIV. By targeting the root cause of problems, therapies may be able to slow the progression of the virus by preserving gut integrity.
A Swiss patient has achieved 20 months of HIV remission after a bone marrow transplant performed as part of cancer treatment. The patient's cells remained HIV-permissive despite the absence of a protective mutation, yet the virus was still undetectable after antiretroviral therapy was discontinued.
A new molecular compound has been identified that can activate latent HIV-1 in cells, showing promise for HIV treatments. Researchers found that this compound, YSE028, can reactivate latently infected cells and induce cell death, potentially leading to a complete cure for HIV.
Researchers successfully demonstrate AAV vector efficacy in aged animal models, showing robust hearing rescue in mice with a mutation equivalent to a defective human gene. The study suggests that virally mediated gene therapy could potentially treat genetic hearing loss, especially for patients diagnosed at advanced age.