Research on HIV infection and how the virus behaves. Covers viral persistence, prevention policy, adolescent consent, and how HIV infects cells.
A Weill Cornell Medicine team found rare variants of the virus in mothers' blood that can escape broadly neutralizing antibodies. These variants are associated with increased transmission risk to infants, suggesting vaccines or treatments need to be effective against them. Researchers propose high-dose combination therapy for pregnant ...
A recent study found dramatic increases in life expectancy for people living with HIV in seven Latin American countries, with a 14-year retrospective analysis of 30,688 individuals. The study reveals significant gains in life expectancy, particularly among women and those with lower HIV transmission risk factors.
A Phase 2 clinical trial is launched to evaluate ImmunityBio's Anktiva (IL-15 agonist) in Thai participants with acute HIV infection. The goal is to target the establishment of the HIV reservoir at a very early stage.
The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting people with or at risk for HIV by interfering with treatment and prevention services, and threatening individual health. Accelerated research on interactions between HIV and SARS-CoV-2 is urgently needed to mitigate the dual pandemics.
The study shows that using a truncated form of the CD4 molecule as part of a gene therapy yields superior and longer-lasting results in mouse models than previous similar therapies. The new approach to CAR T gene therapy has the potential to create lifelong protection from HIV infection by producing memory cells.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discover that widely used diabetes drug metformin suppresses HIV replication in immune cells by inhibiting a key process in their production of chemical energy. This finding suggests that metformin and other drugs reducing T cell metabolism might be useful as adjunct therapies for treating HIV.
A team of researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has identified five new chemicals that can promote latency in HIV, providing a potential solution to the disease. By screening over 1800 compounds, they discovered compounds that can suppress viral reactivation and reduce the risk of disease progression.
A recent MHRP study demonstrated that an experimental combination of a TLR7 agonist and broadly neutralizing antibodies delayed viral rebound after ART interruption by 2-fold. This approach may represent a potential strategy to target the HIV reservoir in infected individuals.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that HIV's Nef protein activates protein kinases, leading to chronic immune activation and disease progression. The study suggests repurposing kinase inhibitors as a new treatment option for patients whose immunodeficiency is not reversed by current therapies.
The US is failing to address HIV disparities, with racial and sexual minorities disproportionately affected. The epidemic has shifted from coastal areas to the South and rural regions, where women and minorities are more likely to be infected.
Scientists have successfully imaged HIV during transport into the nucleus of an infected cell using 3D imaging techniques. The images show that the viral capsid passes through the nuclear pore intact before breaking apart inside the nucleus.
Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered a unique way to target human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a master at hiding from the immune system. A new type of antibody marks infected cells, allowing the immune system to see and kill them.
A study in rural Kenya and Uganda found that offering universal access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) significantly reduced HIV incidence, particularly among women. The study suggests that providing broad access to PrEP alongside HIV testing and treatment could reduce new HIV infections in generalized epidemic settings.
Researchers from INRS identify a protein called interleukin-21 that restores mitochondrial energy metabolism in immune cells, potentially leading to improved treatment options for HIV patients. The study also explores its applications in other diseases associated with persistent inflammation.
Dr. Anthony Fauci is being recognized for his significant contributions to science and medicine, particularly in the fields of immunology and infectious diseases. He has made numerous groundbreaking research discoveries and has been a key figure in shaping public policy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a potential way to eradicate latent HIV infection by triggering a natural alarm system in human immune cells. The strategy targets the activity of a specific HIV protein, rather than its appearance, and has shown promise with certain drugs that force the protein to become active.
A new study published in The Lancet HIV found that integrating opioid use disorder treatment with HIV care in Vietnam can be effective. The study suggests that countries aiming to expand treatment should consider interventions supporting retention on treatment through family networks, peers, and community health workers.
A recent study found that Medicaid expansion led to a significant increase in the identification of undiagnosed HIV infections and the use of HIV prevention services. The research reveals a 13.9% rise in new HIV diagnoses, mostly concentrated among injection drug users in low-income and rural counties.
A new tool predicts viral escape mutations by analyzing the relationship between viruses and human immunity, as well as the structure of sentences in natural language. The algorithm achieves accurate results without prior training, identifying high-escape potential regions in SARS-CoV-2's Spike protein.
A recent study published in the Chinese Medical Journal found a high proportion of recent HIV infections among Chinese MSM college students, particularly those under 25 years old. The study suggests that regular HIV testing and TDR testing are crucial to prevent the spread of the disease. The findings highlight the need for early educa...
A new study published in The Lancet Global Health found that cervical cancer risk is six times higher in HIV-infected women worldwide. Southern and Eastern Africa are particularly affected due to high rates of HIV and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections.
A global team of researchers has proposed a four-part approach to detect and contain zoonotic diseases in Africa. The strategy involves gathering information on diseases that can jump from animals to humans, testing hospital patients with fevers, analyzing blood serum in high-risk groups, and utilizing archived samples.
New research reveals that people with HIV are more likely to experience cardiovascular disease, with impaired blood vessel function playing a significant role. The study also found that kidney function had a stronger connection to blood vessel health in those with HIV.
Researchers at the University of Maryland found higher rates of West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes in lower-income neighborhoods in urban Baltimore, Maryland. This preliminary data points to a need for more research to inform policy and programs that can protect the health of those most at risk.
A study found that vaginal bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis can metabolize HIV prevention drugs, reducing their effectiveness. This imbalance can increase the risk of HIV transmission in women. The researchers highlight the need for better treatments and studies on women's health to improve HIV prevention efforts.
Researchers successfully edited SIV - a virus closely related to HIV - from the genomes of non-human primates using CRISPR gene-editing. The breakthrough demonstrates that the editing tool can reach infected cells and tissues, including viral reservoirs where the viruses integrate into host DNA.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are urging increased HIV testing in Europe to combat late diagnoses. More than 136,000 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in 2019, with 53% of those diagnosed at a late stage of the infection.
Researchers have developed a targeted therapy approach against virus-infected cells, delivering immune-activating drugs selectively into infected cells. This technology shows promise in treating influenza, COVID-19, HIV, and other enveloped viruses.
A recent study reveals correlations between clusters, observing the development of new mutations and transmission chains. The research provides important insights for pandemic control and may help assess whether treatments influence virus mutation characteristics.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano identified EBSELEN as a potent inhibitor of Mpro protein in SARS-CoV-2, which blocks virus replication. The study elucidates key aspects of the binding mechanism, highlighting selenium's role in inhibiting viral replication.
Effective early interventions can speed recovery, reduce severe outcomes, and alleviate healthcare demands for patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms. Research is ongoing to repurpose existing antivirals and develop new therapies targeting SARS-CoV-2.
A new study led by Boston Medical Center researchers identified the inability to control HIV RNA production from existing HIV DNA as a potential key driver of chronic inflammation in people living with HIV. This finding highlights the need for novel treatments targeting persistent inflammation to improve outcomes.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that most rhinoviruses require human protein STING to infect cells and cause disease. The discovery opens a new avenue for controlling infection and could lead to targeted therapies for treating common colds and acute wheezing episodes.
A research team at George Washington University is exploring the role of sex hormones in HIV latency and its impact on treatment efficacy. The study aims to develop more effective approaches to a cure for HIV, particularly for women and transgender patients who are disproportionately affected by the virus.
A new study by George Mason University found that most college students (88%) would use STI self-testing services if available, and 59% prefer private testing at Student Health Services. The study suggests increasing STI testing among students could lead to better health outcomes.
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America has updated its guidance for healthcare personnel living with HIV or hepatitis, citing low transmission rates and advances in treatments. The new recommendations aim to protect both patients and healthcare workers while ensuring privacy and health.
The International Antiviral Society-USA has updated its guidelines for preventing and treating HIV infection in adults, emphasizing the importance of antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis. The new recommendations aim to improve treatment adherence and reduce HIV transmission.
A systematic review found that the severity of infectious diseases peaks in school-age children, with young adults facing a higher risk of severe disease. The study analyzed data on 32 different infections and suggests 'immune aging' may start as early as young adulthood.
Researchers in Lesotho and Switzerland found that combining home visits with HIV self-tests increased test coverage among villagers, particularly young people. The strategy resulted in a 20% higher HIV test rate compared to traditional campaigns.
Researchers recreated HIV infection steps in a test tube, identifying essential components for replication. The study provides an unprecedented view of the virus and its role in infection, shedding light on potential targets for improved treatments.
Researchers found that a majority of HIV-specific T cells can detect and respond to viruses with the capacity to rebound following treatment interruptions. This knowledge could contribute to the development of new treatments against HIV infection. The study suggests that T cells play a crucial role in controlling viral rebound.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered 'repliclones', large clones of HIV-infected cells that produce infectious virus particles, which can cause persistent viremia despite adherence to therapy. This finding has significant clinical implications and highlights a key barrier to developing a true cure for HIV.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that methamphetamine use increases the risk of casual sex without a condom, particularly among those with higher sexual desire. The study demonstrated that intense sexual arousal leads to rapid shift in preference for using a condom.
Researchers have mapped out an atlas of the latent virus reservoir cells of eight individuals living with HIV, challenging previous assumptions about its makeup. The study used a new approach to backtrack reactivated reservoir cells to their original latent state, revealing distinct areas and shared markers across different tissue types.
A new TB vaccine developed by Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine has shown promising results in a Phase 2 trial, inducing immune responses against the disease. The vaccine was safe and well-tolerated, with minimal local reactions, and may prevent TB disease by inducing a favorable immune response.
Researchers have developed a new Dual CAR T cell immunotherapy that targets the HIV reservoir and combats HIV infection in humanized mice. The therapy, which combines two CARs into a single T cell, provides a strong and long-lasting response against HIV-infection while being resistant to the virus itself.
A new study explores women's hesitancy to use long-acting injectable (LAI) PrEP and their interest in its benefits. Women reported preferring LAI PrEP due to perceived effectiveness, convenience, and confidentiality.
Researchers have discovered that a deadly combination of two mosquito-borne viruses may trigger stroke in adults. A new study published in The Lancet Neurology found that patients infected with both Zika and chikungunya were more likely to experience stroke, which could be caused by either virus alone.
A team of researchers has discovered a novel approach to combat HIV using an antibiotic molecule called concanamycin A. The compound inhibits the Nef protein, allowing cytotoxic T lymphocytes to recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells. This breakthrough offers new hope for a potential cure for HIV by combining with existing treatments.
A study found that rapid testing for HIV and HCV at drug detoxification centers led to a higher number of positive test results compared to laboratory-based testing. This approach has the potential to improve healthcare access for individuals with substance use disorders, reducing the risk of transmission and improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers develop Dual CAR T cell immunotherapy to target HIV reservoir, showing promise in controlling viral replication and preserving CD4+ T cells. The therapy was effective in slowing HIV replication, killing infected cells, and suppressing the virus with ART.
Researchers found that elite HIV controllers have viral reservoirs located in inactive regions of the genome, known as gene deserts, which are incapable of reactivating. This unique characteristic may hold the key to achieving a functional cure for HIV by targeting active viral reservoirs.
A team of researchers from the University of Melbourne has identified new mediators of immune exhaustion that may be targeted in therapies for cancer and severe viral infections. T cells can lose function within just a few days of severe infection, contrary to previous thought that it takes longer.
Scientists developed an injectable HIV drug that blocks infection and provides extended viral suppression with lower doses and reduced side effects. The drug, CPT31, has great potential to help patients with drug resistance and those who would benefit from a longer-acting treatment option.
A new COVID-19 vaccine delivered via the nose produces a strong immune response in mice, preventing infection and sterilizing immunity. The vaccine uses adenovirus technology with mutations to stabilize the spike protein, allowing for a single dose to induce robust protection against COVID-19.
Researchers developed a new vaccine called 4X-SA-GP, which uses fungal β-glucan particles loaded with S. aureus proteins to stimulate antifungal immunity in mice. Vaccination induced protective T cell and antibody responses, protecting mice from staph infection.
Researchers found that a key protein used by the varicella zoster virus to initiate infection does not operate as previously thought. The immune system can prevent infection by attacking a spot on the protein in an unexpected place, according to the study.
Researchers found that fingolimod inhibits HIV replication by targeting S1P receptors, reducing viral binding and fusion. The compound also activates antiviral restriction factor SAMHD1, leading to a decrease in total and integrated HIV levels.
Researchers found that fingolimod inhibits multiple stages of the HIV lifecycle, blocking infection and transmission in CD4+ T cells. The study suggests that targeting Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors could be a novel strategy to inhibit HIV replication.
A single protein, MARCH8, uses multiple strategies to defend cells against viral infection, including tagging the vesicular stomatitis virus for destruction and holding HIV hostage. This discovery could improve understanding of how HIV overcomes human immune defense.