Research on HIV infection and how the virus behaves. Covers viral persistence, prevention policy, adolescent consent, and how HIV infects cells.
Research reveals that tiny variants in a protein called HLA-B are associated with immune system's ability to control HIV infection. The study identifies five amino acid sites critical to the protein's function, providing insights into the genetic basis of natural immunity.
CONRAD will receive funding to develop vaginal rings that provide both contraceptive and HIV prevention, addressing unintended pregnancies and HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa. The grant aims to improve reproductive health choices for women and prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College have identified a potential new treatment for the Nipah and Hendra viruses, which are lethal and emerging viruses with no current treatment or vaccine available. The approach uses cholesterol-tagged peptides to target the membrane where the virus fuses with host cells, preventing infection.
A Danish study reveals that schistosomiasis causes sores in women's reproductive organs, making them more susceptible to HIV infections. Younger women with the parasite are more likely to receive effective treatment and prevention programs.
A recent study in The Lancet Infectious Diseases identified herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus as the most common causes of encephalitis in the UK. However, up to 85% of patients worldwide have an unknown cause, emphasizing the need for further research to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
A new research method has provided unprecedented clarity on the behavior of the HIV protein Gag, which plays critical roles in the assembly of the human immunodeficiency virus. The study reveals new conformations of the protein and offers potential avenues for developing antiviral drugs.
Two NIH-funded studies influenced the WHO's revision of its guidelines for treating HIV-infected women and infants. The studies found that a single dose of nevirapine to prevent mother-to-child transmission can hamper the drug's effectiveness if used later as part of a treatment regimen. As a result, the new guidelines advise against u...
Recent studies published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases found evidence supporting a possible link between XMRV and prostate cancer. However, conflicting reports suggest that XMRV is unlikely associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, HIV infection, or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
Scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of CXCR4, a molecule involved in HIV infection and many forms of cancer. The high-resolution structure sheds light on how CXCR4 functions and could point to ways to control its activity.
A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a new strategy for protecting newborns against HIV by boosting their immune system. By educating part of the baby's immune system within the first few hours of birth, researchers hope to limit the levels of infection and extend lives.
A mobile van approach to hunt down active cases of tuberculosis significantly outperformed door-to-door visits, detecting 255 smear-positive patients vs. 137 through door-to-door visits. This intervention led to a 43% decline in undiagnosed culture-positive TB in the community.
Researchers emphasize Couples Voluntary Counseling and Testing (CVCT) as a proven method to decrease HIV/AIDS rates in Africa. The approach identifies undiagnosed individuals, allowing for targeted interventions before new infections occur.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that pooled nucleic acid amplification testing is not cost-effective at recommended antibody testing intervals, except for clinics serving men who have sex with men. However, decreasing the antibody testing interval to 6 months or 5 years made it cost-saving in all settings.
Scientists have created a substance that targets amyloid structures in semen and weakens HIV's ability to infect the body's immune cells. The experimental compound makes it harder for HIV particles to stick to human immune cells, offering a new lead in developing a microbicide to prevent HIV transmission.
A new study found that HIV-infected individuals who start antiretroviral therapy (ART) soon after acquiring the virus have stronger immune responses to other pathogens compared to those who start ART later. Early treatment restores resting memory B cells and reduces immature B cells, leading to improved immune system function.
Researchers will investigate biological mechanisms of broadly neutralizing antibody generation and its relevance to AIDS vaccine design. The U19 grant will support studies using samples from HIV-positive volunteers worldwide.
The NIH will fund a five-year research initiative to identify and treat HIV-positive inmates in the US prison system. The goal is to reduce HIV transmission and improve public health by linking those in incarceration to antiretroviral therapy and medical care.
A new material, a potential ingredient for microbicides, dramatically lowers HIV infection rates by targeting the mediator between the virus and cells. The coating molecule blocks SEVI's interactions with both the virus and immune cells, preventing at least one way for HIV to attach.
Scientists have identified a potential new treatment for toxoplasmosis, an infection affecting almost 2 billion people worldwide. Triclosan, commonly found in soaps and toothpastes, has shown promise as a guiding light for developing effective medications.
Research at OHSU's Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute suggests that G-CSF, a hormone stimulating stem cell growth, can reactivate human cytomegalovirus in bone marrow recipients, increasing their risk of infection. The study highlights the need for factoring in the risks associated with G-CSF use during transplants.
A quick-dissolving vaginal film containing a powerful anti-HIV drug is being developed by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh. The film could provide an alternative dosage form that releases the drug faster and more efficiently than existing gel formulations, potentially leading to better protection from HIV infection.
Researchers have discovered that a precursor to the AIDS-causing HIV is at least 32,000 years old, contradicting previous estimates. The study suggests that HIV's evolution into a non-lethal form is unlikely due to its rapid virulence.
Drs. De Clercq and Fauci are recognized for their pioneering work in understanding and combating HIV/AIDS. They have made significant contributions to the development of antiviral drugs and treatments.
In France, nearly half of new HIV infections occur among men who have sex with men, accounting for 48% of new cases in 2008. Incidence is 200 times higher than in the French heterosexual population.
Researchers found a sensor in dendritic cells that recognizes HIV, sparking a more potent immune response. The ability to stimulate this protective response is critical for developing therapeutic vaccines against HIV.
Research found that young white homosexual men contribute significantly to local HIV spread, highlighting high-risk behavior as a major factor. The study's findings suggest targeted prevention programs focused on this group are needed to combat rising infections.
A recent study by IRCM researchers revealed the crucial role of the Vpr protein in blocking cell division and triggering immune cell death during HIV infection. The findings suggest that targeting this process could lead to new potential therapeutic targets, providing a better understanding of HIV infection and AIDS.
Researchers reviewed data to assess immune responses to vaccines in HIV-infected children on HAART. Most children responded well to revaccination, but those with poorer immune systems and slower immune reconstitution may require additional doses to maintain protective immunity.
A survey of intensive care units in England, Wales and Northern Ireland found that staff often test incapacitated patients without consent after needlestick injuries. The results highlight the need for further discussion on the legality of such tests, as it could be argued that this is unlawful under UK legislation.
New studies suggest that vitamin A and beta-carotene supplements may increase the amount of HIV in breast milk, potentially leading to mother-to-child transmission. The research found that these nutrients can raise the risk of developing subclinical mastitis, an inflammatory condition that causes viral particles to leak into the milk.
A new HIV drug candidate called PIE12-trimer has been developed by a University of Utah biochemist, which prevents the virus from attacking human cells. The compound is designed with a unique resistance capacitor that makes it effective against emerging drug-resistant viruses.
A new research approach targets infected cells to eliminate HIV, offering a potential cure. By inducing programmed cell death, the approach aims to reduce the viral load and prevent disease progression. If successful, this therapy could lead to an eradication of the virus.
A study reveals that HIV-infected injection drug users are more likely to develop proteinuria, a marker of kidney disease, which can lead to kidney failure. Clinicians should aggressively screen this population for proteinuria and consider them candidates for medical treatments that protect the heart and kidneys.
Catherine A. Blish receives ICAAC Young Investigator Award for elucidating neutralizing antibodies in HIV transmission, sponsored by Merck. Her work shows that broad neutralizing antibody responses may not prevent superinfection with a second strain of HIV.
Researchers will study immune cells to identify biomarkers associated with TB infection and disease reactivation. The joint laboratory aims to develop early diagnosis and effective treatment for the highly contagious disease, affecting millions worldwide.
A US-Mexico border program using a 35-minute behavioral intervention significantly reduced the incidence of HIV and STIs among female sex workers. The program, called Mujer Segura or Healthy Woman, was found to be cost-effective, with an estimated expense per intervention of less than $200.
A five-year, $4 million NIH grant will support a prospective study on antiretroviral therapy for people co-infected with MDR-TB and HIV in South Africa. The study aims to gather evidence for clinical practice and public health policy worldwide.
The mother-to-child HIV transmission rate has dropped significantly since the advent of powerful therapies, with fewer than 10 babies born with the disease annually in Florida. Despite progress, there are still missed opportunities for prevention, particularly among women with mental health issues or substance abuse problems.
The International AIDS Society launches a new report recommending a science-based approach to scaling up treatment and prevention of HIV amongst Injecting Drug Users (IDUs). The 'Seek, test, treat and retain' model advocates for expanding outreach, testing, treatment, and retention services within the criminal justice system.
Researchers gathered for a workshop to review and debate the latest research on HIV reservoirs, with the goal of controlling or eradicating the virus. Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy, HIV remains hidden in certain cells, making lifelong treatment necessary.
Less than 1 in 10 injecting drug users globally are covered by effective HIV prevention interventions, with most relying on a combination of needle and syringe programs, opioid substitution therapy, and antiretroviral therapy. Scaling up these combined approaches is crucial to reduce HIV transmission among IDUs.
A review of evidence shows widespread abuse of human rights among people who use drugs, increasing risk of HIV infection. Rights-based responses have had good results in implementing harm reduction services and involving people in policy development.
Dr. Fauci presents new insights on the early pathogenic events following sexual exposure to HIV, informing strategies for prevention and vaccination. He focuses on the role of α4β7 in enhancing HIV binding to CD4+ T cells, a potential target for vaccine development.
Women who use drugs face double neglect and risk of HIV infection via unprotected sex and unsafe injections. A new proposal outlines trauma-informed approaches to prevent HIV infection, including couple-based interventions and empowerment strategies.
The CAPRISA 004 trial results demonstrate the effectiveness of a 1% tenofovir gel in reducing a woman's risk of HIV transmission. This breakthrough provides a tool for women to take control of their health and protect themselves from HIV infection.
Myths about HIV/AIDS in people who use drugs are addressed by Dr. Steffanie Strathdee and Professor Chris Beyrer, who present evidence countering common misconceptions, such as non-compliance with treatment and increased risk of infection from needle sharing.
A new study finds that hazardous alcohol consumption is linked to increased HIV infection rates in Southern and Eastern Africa. Venue-based interventions have been shown to be effective in changing individual behavior and social norms, but more research is needed to address the gender gap in these programs.
The growing HIV epidemic in people who use drugs is a significant public health concern, with 16 million injecting drug users worldwide and 3 million living with HIV. A comprehensive approach combining access to antiretroviral treatment, opioid substitution therapy, and needle programs can help contain the outbreak.
Experts conclude that inadequate provision of opioid substitution therapy, needle exchange programs, and antiretroviral treatment, along with laws prohibiting OST, are all contributing to the spread of HIV among people who use drugs. Scaling up combination HIV prevention interventions is shown to be effective in curbing the epidemic.
HIV-infected drug users are at a higher risk of developing co-morbidities such as viral hepatitis, tuberculosis, and mental illness. Evidence-based treatments like medication-assisted therapies can improve treatment outcomes and reduce mortality rates.
A meta-analysis found that only intensive, multi-session treatment programs reduced amphetamine use. The authors emphasize the need for scalable and cost-effective interventions to address the relationship between amphetamine drug use and HIV risk.
A study of microbicide gel shows reduced risk of HIV and herpes infections in women, with a 39% effective reduction in HIV risk and 51% effective prevention against genital herpes. The gel contains 1% tenofovir and has the potential to prevent over half a million new HIV infections in South Africa alone.
A recent study found that using a vaginal microbicide with an antiretroviral drug called tenofovir significantly reduced HIV infections among women. The study involved 889 women from South Africa and found that those who used the gel before and after sex had 39% fewer HIV infections compared to those who used a placebo gel.
A vaginal gel containing 1% tenofovir has been shown to significantly reduce a woman's risk of HIV infection and genital herpes. The study found that the gel was 39% effective in reducing HIV risk during vaginal intercourse, increasing to 54% for women using the gel in over 80% of their sex acts.
The CAPRISA 004 microbicide study has shown that an antiretroviral drug can be formulated into a vaginal gel protecting women against HIV infection. This finding is crucial for empowering at-risk populations with a safe and effective prevention tool, marking a significant milestone in HIV prevention.
The NIH proposes a three-part plan to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic by significantly expanding antiretroviral therapy access, curing a substantial proportion of infected individuals, and increasing HIV prevention measures. This comprehensive approach aims to control the spread of the disease and ultimately achieve its eradication.
A study found that routine HIV screenings in emergency departments resulted in a small increase in newly diagnosed HIV patients, with most diagnoses occurring late in the course of disease. The findings suggest that nontargeted opt-out rapid HIV screening may be an effective prevention strategy.
A new study conducted jointly by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, and other institutions found that people who received up to $60 each over 12 months for staying free of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) had a lower prevalence of those infections after a year compared to those who did not receive payments. Th...
A Canadian study found that the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV patients in 1996 led to a significant decrease in new HIV diagnoses. The study showed that every 100 patients on HAART resulted in a 3% reduction in new HIV diagnoses.
Researchers found that only 51% of HIV-exposed infants received nevirapine, a minimal dose needed to protect them from mother-to-child transmission. The study highlights the need to expand programs and improve monitoring to address programmatic failures and common problems in preventing mother-to-child transmission.