Research on HIV infection and how the virus behaves. Covers viral persistence, prevention policy, adolescent consent, and how HIV infects cells.
A five-year international study found that acyclovir suppressive therapy did not reduce the risk of HIV transmission in couples where one partner had both HIV and HSV-2. The study revealed significant reductions in plasma HIV levels and genital ulcers, but no impact on HIV transmission.
A new Rwandan study finds that circumcising newborn males is more cost-effective than adult male circumcision for HIV prevention. The operation costs just $15 per child, compared to $59 for adults, and can save millions in treatment costs.
Researchers found that Helicobacter pylori infection may enhance immunity against tuberculosis by inducing expression of interferon gamma and other cytokines. This protection may help determine whether someone infected with TB gets a latent or active disease, offering potential new insights into managing the disease.
A Zambian study suggests halting breastfeeding early harms children born to HIV-positive mothers, increasing mortality. Longer breastfeeding protects against fatal infectious diseases in low-resource settings.
Researchers found that an early immune response is key in controlling the spread of HTLV-1, a virus that causes adult T-cell leukemia and inflammatory diseases. Providing fewer immune cells for the virus to attack at a critical time can significantly reduce the infection's severity.
A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that each additional 1.1 pounds of birth weight decreases tuberculosis risk by 46% among identical twins. The association is stronger for males, with an 87% reduced risk, and sheds light on the developmental origins of health and disease.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found significantly more coronary atherosclerotic plaques and obstructive coronary artery disease in HIV-infected men with minimal cardiac risk factors. The research highlights the importance of addressing cardiovascular risk factors early in HIV disease.
Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes have discovered surfen, a small molecule that inhibits HIV's ability to bind to cells and enhance infection. The discovery could lead to new treatments for HIV, potentially reducing transmission rates through sexual contact.
A recent study found that refusing immunizations increases the risk of varicella illness in children, with unvaccinated kids nine times more at risk. The study analyzed electronic health records of over 86,000 children and confirmed that vaccine refusal significantly raises the risk of infection.
The guide highlights key infection risks faced by transplant recipients, including pet ownership, food safety, and travel plans. It provides advice on how to minimize exposure to potential sources of infection and reduce the risk of respiratory, waterborne, and food-borne illnesses.
Researchers have found that infectious HIV-1 virus particles can bind to the surface of red blood cells, significantly increasing their infectivity. This discovery suggests that erythrocytes may serve as a hidden reservoir for infectious HIV-1 virions.
The November issue of Reproductive Health Matters explores the complex relationship between criminalization and HIV transmission, raising concerns about women's rights in Africa. The journal examines how laws aimed at protecting women from sexual violence may inadvertently lead to their prosecution for HIV exposure.
Scientists at MUHC and international colleagues discovered a chromosomal site controlling natural resistance to TB infection, found in 20% of individuals from high-exposure areas. The findings hold promise for preventing TB infection in the general population by stimulating resistance mechanisms.
A team of researchers has created a mouse model with key features of HIV infection, shedding light on the disease's mechanisms. The mouse exhibits symptoms similar to those of immunodeficiency virus infection, but with notable differences that highlight its limitations as a model for human disease.
A recent study conducted in Southern Malawi found that azithromycin antibiotic had no significant impact on reducing the risk of preterm labour. The research suggests that infection may not be the primary cause of preterm birth and highlights the need for further investigation into other factors contributing to this issue.
Research highlights vitamin D's critical role in immune function, inflammation, and heart health, with evidence suggesting it may boost innate immunity and prevent infections. Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread problem worldwide, affecting nearly one billion people, and experts are considering increasing recommended daily intake.
A study identified a gene variant associated with elevated baseline blood pressure, suggesting it may be a good target for drugs to alleviate stress-induced hypertension. The researchers also found that the protein generated by this gene influences sympathetic activity and prevents stress-induced hypertension in both mice and humans.
Male circumcision significantly reduces HIV infection risk by 60% in rural Uganda men. The removal of foreskin tissue containing HIV target cells explains most of the protection. Circumcision also reduces genital ulcer disease by lowering rates of trauma-induced ulcers, not just those caused by herpes.
Researchers have discovered that SIV induces a vigorous immune response in both natural and susceptible hosts, but only in natural hosts is the response brought under control. This study provides new insights into how to control HIV infection of humans by understanding the mechanisms behind SIV's rapid control of immune activation.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have determined the atomic-level structure of a SEVI precursor and found it damages cell membranes to make them more vulnerable to HIV infection. The study provides insights into how SEVI interacts with cell membranes, which may help in developing new treatments for AIDS.
Scientists discover that antibodies must precisely target the gp120 site of initial attachment on the viral spike to neutralize HIV. The new findings suggest a potential strategy for generating effective HIV-neutralizing antibodies, which could bring researchers closer to creating an HIV vaccine.
Researchers found that people who had previously built up immunity to the adenovirus used in the trial had a higher risk of infection with HIV after receiving the vaccine. The study suggests that other adenovirus-based vaccines, such as those for tuberculosis and malaria, may also be at risk due to the same immune system reaction.
Scientists have identified a key mechanism behind the binding action of HIV antibodies 2F5 and 4E10, which could lead to the development of more effective vaccines. The study found that successful docking requires attachment to the virus's membrane containing lipid.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has been awarded $11.5 million to identify adolescents and young adults infected with HIV and link them to medical care. The grants will focus on two initiatives: improving HIV testing in youth and developing behavioral strategies for prevention.
A recent study published by Henry Ford Hospital contradicts previous research suggesting hepatitis B infection increases the risk of pancreatic cancer. Age is found to be the only significant predictor of pancreatic cancer in patients infected with hepatitis B.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is building its first US cancer clinic and training center in Africa, focusing on infectious diseases. The $500,000 grant from USAID will aid in the construction of a new outpatient clinic and training facility to improve access to clinical care and train medical professionals.
Researchers found that sperm can transmit HIV to macrophages, T cells and dendritic cells by attaching to their surface and using specific molecules. This discovery suggests that sperm may be a key factor in spreading the virus during sexual intercourse.
A study found that highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) significantly reduces postnatal HIV-1 transmission in breastfeeding mothers. The protective effect was observed across all eligible women, with an 82% reduction in transmission.
Research found racial differences in individual behaviors do not fully explain marked disparities in HIV infection prevalence. Social factors such as exposure to the virus through racially segregated mixing patterns and poverty contribute to these differences. The US response to the epidemic has failed to control the spread of HIV amon...
Researchers aim to create a microbicide-releasing vaginal ring that protects women for weeks, targeting HIV infection at two different steps in its life cycle.
Researchers have developed innovative strategies to eliminate the hidden reservoir of HIV-1 from immune cells, keeping it under control. In another breakthrough, scientists found a way to transiently keep hepatitis C virus levels down in treated patients receiving a new liver transplant.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed an in vitro system to identify compounds that can eliminate HIV-1 from resting CD4+ T cells without causing global T cell activation. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for eliminating the virus's hidden reservoir.
Natural killer cells help maintain a balance between T cells and the immune system, preventing over-response that can cause harm. Understanding how to keep NK cells around could lead to new treatments for patients with compromised immune systems.
A US-led clinical trial in Thailand has found that an investigational vaccine regimen reduced the risk of HIV infection by 31% among vaccinated participants. The study, which enrolled over 16,000 adults, suggests a promising approach to preventing HIV transmission.
Scientists have developed a new antigen that induces protective antibodies capable of blocking infection by genetically-diverse HIV strains. The chemically-activated antigen differs from previous vaccines and stimulates the production of broadly-neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers found that HIV can mutate its outer proteins to disguise itself from neutralizing antibodies, allowing it to escape the immune system. In two patients, viruses mutated parts of their outer proteins, interfering with antibody attack or targeting a different protein.
A large-scale clinical trial, VOICE, is testing the safety and efficacy of an antiretroviral microbicide gel and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) regimen to prevent HIV infection in women in four African countries. The study aims to determine which intervention is more effective and acceptable to participants.
The VOICE study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of two ARV regimens: daily vaginal gel and daily oral tablets, to reduce HIV risk in women. The trial will enroll up to 5,000 participants across four countries and assess their willingness to use the methods.
A new once-daily medication has shown to be as effective as multiple dosings for treating the most common mouth infection in HIV/AIDS patients. The treatment, a small tablet applied daily, provides relief from oral candidiasis (OC) with few or no side effects.
Researchers at UAB found that preventive antibiotic TB therapy for HIV-infected patients is approximately $950 per case, compared to a previously reported range of $900-$1500 for treating new smear-positive TB cases. The integrated care approach also offers economic benefits by reducing productivity losses and preventing the spread of TB.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz are working on a new approach to AIDS vaccine development using novel HIV protein structures and broadly neutralizing antibodies to combat the virus' high variability. The $3.5 million NIH grant will support studies exploring these promising findings and potentially lead to more effective vaccines.
Scientists have engineered a human HIV-1 inhibitor modeled after an owl monkey fusion protein that potently blocks HIV-1 infection. This new treatment showed promise in preventing viral replication in mice and has the potential to be a robust anti-HIV-1 gene therapy candidate.
A new study from UCSF found a high HIV infection rate among gay-identified men in Soweto Township, with 33.9% of participants infected. The study also highlights the importance of targeted prevention and treatment for this population.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers reveals that HIV subtype D is associated with a significantly higher likelihood of developing dementia. The study found that nearly all (89%) patients infected with subtype D developed dementia, whereas only about 24% of those infected with subtype A showed signs of the condition.
Researchers designed synthetic protein-like mimics that interrupt HIV's interaction with host cell proteins, blocking infection. The novel molecules, dubbed 'foldamers,' are highly resistant to degradation and have potent antiviral activity.
The updated guidelines stress the importance of routine screening for common health problems in HIV patients, such as heart disease and cancer. Comprehensive care models that emphasize a medical home approach are also recommended to ensure holistic care for those living with HIV.
A new study found that antibiotic-resistant TB strains cause longer-lasting infections but with lower transmission rates. The research team estimated the rate of evolution of drug resistance and compared the relative reproductive fitness of resistant and drug-sensitive strains.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a protein called Blimp-1 that can help reprogram exhausted immune cells into more effective 'soldiers' against certain viruses and cancers. By understanding how Blimp-1 suppresses normal immune responses, scientists may develop new strategies to prevent and treat chronic infections.
A €1 million grant from the European Commission will support LSTM in developing a national HIV strategy and programme of support for Libya. The project aims to address Libya's priority issues for HIV prevention and care by analyzing data and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
Research reveals that even after successful treatment with acyclovir, genital herpes sores create an environment conducive to HIV infection. The study found high concentrations of specific immune cells at the site of lesions, increasing the risk of HIV transmission.
A new class of HIV antiretroviral drugs has been shown to be effective for patients beginning treatment, with raltegravir demonstrating faster action and lower side effects than efavirenz. The study found that half the raltegravir group reached viral suppression by week four, compared to less than 20% of the efavirenz group.
Researchers have developed an in-vitro antibody production technique to detect HIV infection earlier, reducing the diagnostic window period. This method promotes the synthesis and release of antibodies against HIV-1 prior to detection in plasma samples, leading to safer blood supply and improved diagnosis.
A study found that HIV infection and chronic alcoholism have a synergistic damaging effect on the brain, particularly impairing immediate episodic memory while preserving working memory. Individuals with both conditions are at risk of trouble learning new information, affecting daily activities and work-related tasks.
A $15 million NIH grant will support a five-year research consortium at Massachusetts General Hospital to study how the hepatitis C virus evades the immune system. The project aims to improve understanding of liver cell involvement in HCV infection and develop new treatments for chronic viral infections.
Researchers found SIV-infected African wild chimpanzees died prematurely and developed hallmarks of HIV-1 infection, contradicting previous assumption that infected primates wouldn't develop AIDS. Yerkes contributed key comparative data on SIV-infected and uninfected sooty mangabeys, shedding light on mechanisms behind natural immunity.
A new technique detects HIV early and monitors its development without refrigeration, making it more accessible in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found a strong correlation between viral load values in plasma and dried blood spots, paving the way for a new testing approach.
Researchers identified three cases of likely HIV transmission to infants via pre-chewed food, suggesting caution for HIV-positive caregivers. The study highlights the need for more data and education on culturally sensitive issues related to infant feeding practices.
A team of researchers refuted a popular hypothesis about the failure of the Merck STEP HIV vaccine study by finding no correlation between pre-existing neutralizing antibodies and increased susceptibility to infection. The study analyzed blood samples from participants with varying degrees of pre-existing immunity to Ad5 and found that...
Studies indicate that immunosuppressed populations, including HIV/AIDS patients, cancer patients, transplant recipients, and those on haemodialysis, are at higher risk for flu infection. Vaccination has shown promise in reducing flu cases, but more research is needed to assess vaccine efficacy and timing for optimal protection.
Research found that African Americans with HIV who have a genetic variation and low white blood cell count have slower disease progression rates. This study suggests a unique survival advantage for African Americans with HIV if they possess both a DARC variation and leukopenia.