Articles tagged with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Researchers at Tulane University developed a handheld TB test inspired by the bombardier beetle's natural defense mechanism. The ASTRA device requires only a drop of blood and delivers same-day diagnoses without need for laboratory or trained staff, outperforming traditional tests in detection of TB with HIV co-infection.
Researchers at MIT and Scripps Research Institute developed a vaccine that generates many more HIV-targeting B cells in mice with just one dose, using two adjuvants. The dual-adjuvant vaccine produces a wider diversity of antibodies against an HIV antigen, allowing the immune system to build up a stronger response.
A daily dose of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole reduced the proportion of preterm births by 40% in pregnant women with HIV. The antibiotic also increased birth weight by 177 grams, improving health outcomes for babies. Researchers hope to confirm these findings in future trials.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have made a breakthrough in creating an effective HIV vaccine by developing a two-step vaccination strategy that induces powerful broadly neutralizing antibodies. The approach successfully blocked nearly 70% of HIV strains, including those typically hard to target.
The US Department of Health and Human Services Panel has recommended moderate-intensity statin therapy as the primary prevention among adults with HIV aged 40-75 years with low to intermediate 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk. For those with a 10-year ASCVD risk score of 5% or higher, statin therapy is strong...
A new study found that eight times more American young adults now take HIV-prevention medication than a decade ago, but inconsistent use and barriers persist. PrEP can reduce the chances of acquiring HIV by 99%, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers and public health agencies to promote consistent use among high-risk patients.
A new study finds connections between extreme weather events and HIV vulnerabilities, including increased transactional sex, reduced condom agency, and LGBTQ stigma. Researchers studied 21 sex workers and 15 gbMSM in Nairobi, Kenya, revealing interrelated links between climate change-related resource insecurities and HIV risk.
A new study finds that cannabis use disorder diagnoses rose substantially across all age groups, race/ethnicity, and comorbidity subgroups nationwide from 2000 to 2022. People living with HIV experienced the greatest relative increase in CUD diagnoses, particularly among older adults.
Researchers from Amsterdam UMC have made a breakthrough in developing an HIV vaccine with a germline-targeting strategy, inducing immune responses in participants. The phase one trial showed promising results, suggesting the potential for this approach to be further developed into a vaccine.
Two phase 1 clinical trials demonstrate the success of a targeted vaccine strategy in activating early immune responses relevant to HIV and advancing them further. The trials provide evidence for a stepwise approach to elicit custom-tailored responses and validate the rational vaccine design underlying this approach.
Researchers have mapped a 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that provides protection against HIV, found in 18-25% of the Danish population. The mutation arose in an individual from the Black Sea region between 6,700 and 9,000 years ago.
The updated CDC HIV Non-Occupational Post Exposure Prophylaxis (nPEP) Guidelines aim to streamline medical practice and prevent new HIV infections. New guidelines include streamlined assessment factors, preferred nPEP regimens, and faster treatment initiation within 24 hours.
Researchers at Scripps Research used computer modeling to illustrate how antibodies recognize lipids in the HIV virus, highlighting a potential new approach for vaccine design. The study identified two key structural features on the antibodies that enable them to target well-defined membrane features.
A global analysis reveals significant differences in disease rates, diagnosis, treatment, and death between males and females for three common conditions. Males are more likely to get sick and die from hypertension, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS, while also being less likely to seek medical care.
Scientists identified specific immunogenetic characteristics in post-treatment controllers who maintain undetectable viral loads after stopping treatment. These genetic markers are associated with the existence of specific NK cell populations that better control infection, supporting their role in long-term HIV remission.
A new study conducted by Medical University of South Carolina shows that long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy for persons living with HIV can be administered safely and effectively at home. Patient satisfaction scores were high for both groups, and no serious safety issues were observed.
A mathematical modeling study suggests that sustained HIV remission or eradication could consistently reduce new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands. However, transient remission with a risk of rebound may increase new infections if not closely monitored.
A new study from Scripps Research finds that a higher ratio of antibodies to viral protein better engages two specific types of immune cells, including phagocytes and natural killer cells. This discovery has implications for the development of experimental HIV vaccines and other drugs.
Wesley Sundquist's lab developed lenacapavir, an exceptionally effective HIV-preventing drug with 99.9 to 100 percent efficacy in clinical trials involving tens of thousands of people. The drug has the potential to dramatically decrease infection rates worldwide if distributed broadly.
A University of Ottawa-led team examines the punishing costs of TB care, finding that patients face 'catastrophic' expenses despite free treatment being available in many countries. The review identifies areas for intervention to reduce patient costs and improve sustainable TB mitigation strategies.
A new point-of-care technology developed by Northwestern University scientists can detect multiple HIV antigens at high sensitivity in a matter of minutes. The technology uses a nanomechanical platform and tiny cantilevers to measure the binding of p24 antigens to surface antibodies, demonstrating high specificity.
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.
Researchers identified nine distinct types of T cells that harbor inactive HIV cells, and persistent T cells with HIV even after antiretroviral therapies. This discovery brings medical experts closer to a cure for the infection affecting nearly 40 million people globally.
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.
Researchers at Tufts University have developed a paper-based device that accurately measures HIV viral loads from dried blood samples, outperforming industry standards. The device, called the plasma spot card, was tested on 75 South African patients and showed improved accuracy in detecting drug-resistant mutations.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute's HIV Cure and Viral Diseases Center have identified a new approach using natural killer cells to target and kill HIV-positive cells. CD64 expression enhances binding activity for holding onto antigen-specific antibodies, allowing for specific targeting and killing of infected cells.
Researchers developed MUNIS, a deep learning tool that predicts CD8+ T cell epitopes with high accuracy, potentially accelerating vaccine development. The tool was validated using experimental data from influenza, HIV, and EBV, demonstrating its potential to streamline vaccine design.
Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a model that quantifies the impacts of social factors on HIV spread, finding that addressing barriers to treatment and care can reduce national HIV incidence by 29%. The study suggests that investing in prevention and social programs could be more cost-effective than treatment alone.
This study investigates the biological mechanisms underlying incomplete immune reconstitution and evaluates Dihydroartemisinin's potential as a therapeutic agent. DHA effectively inhibits T cell activation in individuals with incomplete immune reconstitution, presenting a promising treatment strategy.
Scientists discovered that repetitive HIV vaccinations can lead to the production of antibodies targeting immune complexes already bound to the virus. This chain reaction was observed in follow-up experiments on HIV-vaccinated animals and may impact vaccine design strategies. Understanding this response could lead to improved vaccines ...
HIV-1 uses 'hidden gene fragments' called uORFs and iORFs to fine-tune protein production and interact with the host immune system. The virus also manipulates ribosome collisions to prioritize its own needs while stalling host defense mechanisms.
Research from Radboud University Medical Center shows that lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened the immune system's response to microorganisms. The study found that after lockdowns, inflammation levels in the body were low but the immune system reacted more intensely to viruses and bacteria.
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.
A new hepatitis B vaccine, Heplisav-B, has been shown to be more effective than an older vaccine type in inducing a protective antibody response among people living with HIV who didn't respond to prior vaccination. The study found that up to 99.4% of subjects received the new vaccine showed protective levels of antibodies.
A new study reveals that US college students who use dating apps are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex and multiple partners. The study suggests a vicious cycle where dating app use contributes to increased risks and vice versa.
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.
A University of Minnesota Medical School research team has found that giving iron supplements to children living with HIV can optimize brain development. The study, published in the Lancet HIV journal, demonstrates that iron is not only beneficial but also safe for these children.
A hospital-based study found depression highly prevalent among people living with HIV (44.9%) in a Nigerian university teaching hospital. Sociodemographic factors such as male gender, formal employment, and moderate income levels were associated with reduced odds of depression.
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.
The Center for Global Health Practice and Impact (CGHPI) at Georgetown University Medical Center has been awarded $27.5 million by the CDC/PEPFAR to expand its work in Haiti addressing HIV/AIDS. The new program, TIDE Plus, will strengthen care delivery models and support patient-led organizations to sustain the HIV response.
Generic tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) is the most commonly prescribed medication for PrEP in the US, with injectable PrEP use remaining low due to high costs. PrEP prescriptions increased between 2013 and 2023, according to a recent study.
Researchers have discovered how a protein linked to the human immune system wards off HIV-1 and herpes simplex virus-1 by assembling structures in the cell that lure in viruses and trap them. This discovery offers new avenues for antiviral therapies and could be used to devise strategies to combat these viruses.
Researchers evaluated HIV reservoir in breast milk cells of two women living with HIV, detecting very low levels of cellular HIV DNA. The study's findings support revised recommendations on infant feeding by people with HIV in high resource settings.
A new study finds that persons with HIV diagnosed in redlined neighborhoods experience a significantly longer time to viral suppression. Systemic racism's enduring effects on present-day health outcomes among persons with HIV have been confirmed by the research.
A new study in ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science investigates the molecular mechanisms behind Efavirenz's negative effects on brain function. The research reveals that the drug alters lipid metabolism and downregulates certain enzymes, which could lead to the development of new drugs to block its negative activity.
Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre have discovered that metformin can help deplete and eliminate viral reservoirs in people living with HIV. Metformin inhibits the mTOR molecule, slowing down HIV replication and reducing chronic inflammation.
Researchers found an exponential relationship between HIV risk factors, demonstrating that having multiple risk factors is much worse than having only one. The study used data from a survey of LGBTQ+ youth and suggests that interventions addressing multiple risk factors can provide substantial benefits.
A new study by Northwestern University found that PrEP users frequently perceive others using the medication as promiscuous, despite knowing those who use it. The authors suggest sex-positive messaging to address this stigma and encourage a broader understanding of PrEP's benefits among vulnerable populations.
Researchers found that witnessing community members engage in prosocial behaviors increases policymakers' willingness to support pro-social policies, such as syringe service programs. The study suggests that communities can exert a positive influence on authorities and contribute to the greater good.
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.
Researchers have developed a technique to edit B cells to produce custom antibodies, opening up new possibilities for treating chronic conditions. The technology uses CRISPR gene editing to reprogram B cells as biofactories making custom antibodies.
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the dengue virus genome's use of less efficient codons in its host's machinery to replicate and spread. This discovery has implications for developing novel antiviral treatments and vaccines, as well as understanding the relationship between viruses and their hosts.
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.
Research found that smoking decreases life expectancy of HIV patients by 3-6 years, but smoking cessation can regain up to 5 years. Integrating tobacco cessation interventions into HIV care could substantially improve life expectancy for this population.
Researchers conducted four preclinical studies indicating they're closer to an immunization regimen that could produce rare antibodies effective against a wide range of HIV strains. The findings build on a 2022 phase I clinical trial and represent a key step forward in an immunization strategy that could protect against the virus.
Scientists are conducting a clinical trial to explore the use of anti-retroviral medications Ritonavir and Lopinavir as a potential treatment for brain tumors in patients with Neurofibromatosis 2. The study aims to determine if these drugs can help reduce tumor growth and survival in NF2 patients.
Researchers at Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard have developed a comprehensive platform for HIV vaccine research using the mRNA-LNP system. The platform has shown promising results in preclinically validating next-step boost immunogens and providing new insights into the basic biology of antibody responses.
A Rutgers Health study examines the importance of social support networks for older adults living with HIV, finding that strong connections can reduce stress and anxiety. The research also emphasizes the need for increased funding and programs to foster positive social interactions and improve overall quality of life.
A new study reveals significant disparities in anal cancer risk among people with HIV across different US regions. The relative risk varies significantly depending on the region, with higher risks in the Midwest and South compared to the West and Northeast. Screening rates also differ between regions, with New York state leading the way.