Articles tagged with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
A new study by NYU researchers finds that tourism areas in the Dominican Republic create opportunities for drug use, which fuels local economies and increases HIV risk behaviors. The study highlights the need for targeted research and intervention efforts to address local drug use within the context of tourism areas.
Researchers will explore biological tools to enhance the immune system's ability to attack HIV infection, which persists in brain cells despite antiviral treatments. The goal is to enable the immune system to eliminate HIV infection through innovative therapies.
South African epidemiologist Quarraisha Abdool Karim wins TWAS-Lenovo Science Prize for her groundbreaking work on HIV prevention in women. Her discovery of a topical anti-HIV gel has the potential to save millions of lives, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa where women are disproportionately affected by the epidemic.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a new protein, Ssu72, that plays a critical role in HIV replication. The team found that Ssu72 binds to the Tat protein, revving up the engine of viral replication and potentially making it a target for drug therapy.
Scientists develop technology to visualize HIV protein motion in real-time, revealing key insights into the virus's ability to infect human immune cells. The study reveals three different conformations of the envelope trimer and provides a basis for developing effective therapies.
A Rutgers study found that positive family relationships and open communication lead to an increase in safe sex practices among gay and bisexual youth. The study also highlights the importance of parental acceptance and support in reducing high-risk sexual behaviors.
Researchers from University of Southern Denmark have developed a new method that enables the fast and accurate identification of potential HIV drugs. By screening half a million compounds, they found 14 promising compounds that inhibit the virus's ability to reproduce. This breakthrough could significantly shorten the time it takes to...
A new clinical trial found that drug combinations not including efavirenz are effective as first-line antiretroviral therapy for HIV patients who cannot tolerate efavirenz. The study showed high rates of HIV control and immune system restoration with these regimens, but noted differences in tolerability.
The first article suggests that physicians can steer eligible defendants into treatment programs instead of correctional facilities, while the second article advocates for fair hiring practices in hospitals to improve the health and wellbeing of former inmates. Both articles emphasize the importance of addressing social issues such as ...
A team of researchers reports a case of a baby born with HIV who appeared to be cured after early antiretroviral treatment, but later exhibited detectable HIV infection. The child's immune system showed signs of responding to HIV even after the virus was undetectable.
A new study reconstructs the genetic history of HIV-1 group M and concludes that it originated in Kinshasa around 1920. The team's analysis suggests a 'perfect storm' of factors, including urban growth, transport links, and social changes, contributed to the emergence of HIV from Kinshasa and its spread across Africa and the world.
The Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center will conduct proof-of-concept studies in monkeys and launch Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials to test broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. The goal is to suppress or eradicate HIV in humans, providing an alternative to antiretroviral therapies.
The UCSF Clinician Consultation Center has been funded by the CDC to provide a telephone consultation service for healthcare providers prescribing PrEP. The service will guide clinicians on identifying patients at risk, evaluating their ability to take PrEP regularly and ensuring safe prescribing practices.
Researchers have discovered a surprisingly diverse family of antibodies that can broadly neutralize different strains of HIV, providing new options for vaccine design. The findings offer clues on how to elicit high levels of these antibodies in people.
Researchers found that certain individuals with HIV are more tolerant of the virus than others, with factors including age and HLA-B gene variants playing a role. The study suggests that tolerance-based treatments could be an alternative to traditional resistance-based strategies.
Researchers found that tolerance to HIV varies substantially between individuals, influenced by inherited genes, and is distinct from resistance. The study also discovered a gene linked to both resistance and tolerance, suggesting a unique mechanism for coping with the virus.
The study aims to test a collaborative care intervention to improve chronic opioid therapy management and reduce prescription opioid misuse among HIV-infected patients. Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine hope to develop an effective model that can be adopted nationwide.
A new point-of-care CD4 test can quickly provide HIV diagnosis results, allowing more patients to receive treatment sooner. In resource-limited settings, this can lead to almost a full year of additional life expectancy, making it a cost-effective solution.
Researchers find Puerto Rican people who inject drugs have higher HIV risk and prevalence than other Latino groups, with lower availability of prevention tools and treatment programs. The study recommends a coordinated, multi-region effort to address the disparity and bring an end to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Research published in The Lancet HIV reveals that polydrug use is common among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) in the UK, and is strongly linked to condomless sex. Condom use was markedly lower with increasing polydrug use.
A new study in Russia highlights the challenges of reducing HIV transmission among heavy drinkers. The study shows that a behavioral intervention did not lead to a reduction in STIs and HIV risk behaviors, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. Researchers recommend exploring alternative approaches to stem the growing epidemic.
Researchers have identified a new vulnerability in the HIV armor that a vaccine could exploit, with an antibody called 35O22 preventing 62% of known strains from infecting cells. The discovery suggests it may be easier to elicit this antibody through vaccination compared to other broadly neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers developed a semi-soft vaginal suppository made from carrageenan to deliver the antiviral drug Tenofovir, reducing the spread of HIV and AIDS. The study found that women prefer this drug-delivery system due to its plant-based material, stability, and ease of use.
In a laboratory study led by NIH scientists, broadly neutralizing HIV-specific antibodies (bNAbs) were found to effectively block HIV from entering immune cells. The researchers also demonstrated that these antibodies could completely block HIV replication in infected individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy.
A new study found that desire for intimacy is a strong predictor of whether gay and bisexual men will adopt PrEP. Men in steady same-sex relationships with HIV-negative partners who value intimacy are more likely to take antiretroviral medications to prevent HIV.
Scientists have discovered novel properties of special HIV antibodies that can neutralize multiple strains of HIV. The study found that these 'broadly neutralizing antibodies' are more prevalent in HIV-infected individuals than previously thought, suggesting a possible vaccine strategy to elicit them.
Researchers have successfully mutated the powerful anti-HIV bNAb called VRC01 to make it last longer in blood and collect in rectal mucosal tissue, potentially blocking HIV transmission. A low-dose infusion of mutated VRC01 also protected monkeys against SHIV infection more effectively than unmutated VRC01.
A study of 191 couples found that social and economic marginalization takes a psychological toll on both individuals and their relationships. The research highlights the need for couples-based interventions to improve the health and well-being of transgender women and their male partners.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have trapped the part of a virus responsible for inserting its DNA into human cells, a crucial step in understanding how HIV infects people. By capturing integrase with x-ray crystallography, scientists aim to develop new treatments and better understand how existing drugs work.
Over 90% of gay and bisexual men in the US have used lubricants for anal intercourse and other activities, minimizing skin tears and potential HIV transmission. Public health practitioners can use these findings to promote routine lubricant use as a key aspect of sexual health interventions.
Research by Weizmann Institute scientists found that suppressing interferon activity can have devastating consequences in fighting HIV infection. The study revealed that a short period of blocked interferon activity can lead to permanent damage and disease progression.
A new study reveals how a drug called KP1212 induces rapid mutation in HIV, which could help combat the residual virus in patients. The researchers believe that over time, this treatment could lead to the destruction of latent viruses, potentially curing HIV patients.
A new licensing agreement between Medicines Patent Pool and Gilead Sciences could improve treatment options for children living with HIV. The deal will allow generic versions of the medication tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) to be developed in India and China for countries with over 92% of people living with HIV.
Researchers investigated how HIV infection affects semen bacteria and immune response, finding a link between higher viral loads and increased bacterial and cytokine levels. This discovery could lead to new ways to control the spread of HIV by targeting semen bacteria.
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that combination antiretroviral therapy can reduce HCV viral loads and liver injury in HIV patients co-infected with HCV. This approach supports the concept of early and uninterrupted HIV therapy to prevent liver disease in individuals with HCV/HIV infection.
Researchers have found that an anti-cancer drug can activate hidden HIV in the body, increasing viral load and potentially allowing killer T-cells to destroy infected cells. The discovery could be a step towards developing a treatment for HIV by combining activation of the virus with a vaccine.
The study shows accelerated progress in reducing the global burden of HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis (TB) since governments adopted MDG 6. The number of people living with HIV has risen to around 29 million, while TB prevalence rates have decreased in many regions.
Hospital performance measures must be adjusted to consider patient sociodemographic status factors or disparities in outcomes and access. Long-term remission of HIV returns after patients stop antiretroviral treatment through allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, but virus rebounds when therapy is restarted.
A study of over 3,000 Kenyan men found that male circumcision significantly reduces the risk of acquiring HIV without leading to increased promiscuity or decreased condom use. Despite an initial increase in sexual activity, all other risky behaviors declined and condom use increased across both circumcised and uncircumcised groups.
A major new Series on HIV and sex workers published in The Lancet concludes that decriminalizing sex work is crucial for controlling the HIV pandemic. Decriminalization could avert at least a third of HIV infections among sex workers and their clients, while reducing sexual violence and improving access to healthcare.
The number of deaths from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria has decreased significantly worldwide since 2000. In sub-Saharan Africa, child deaths from malaria have dropped by 31.5% in the past decade. Researchers attribute the decline to improved access to antiretroviral therapy and treatment.
A study found that offering food vouchers worth $9 or $15 resulted in a modest increase in circumcision rates among uncircumcised men in Kenya. The interventions also increased circumcision uptake among married and older participants, as well as those at higher risk of HIV acquisition.
A cluster randomized trial in Malawi found that adults who received home HIV self-testing were more likely to report positive results and initiate antiretroviral therapy. The study's main finding is that population-level ART initiations increased significantly with the availability of home initiation of care.
The guidelines, developed by an expert volunteer panel, integrate cutting-edge biomedical advances with evidence-based behavioral interventions for the care of people living with HIV or at high risk for infection. The recommendations include a call for antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV transmission.
The annual HIV diagnosis rate in the US decreased by 33.2% from 2002 to 2011, driven by declines in several key populations, including women and persons aged 35-44 years. Despite increases among young men who have sex with men, overall diagnoses attributed to injection drug use or heterosexual contact decreased.
A study funded by the Wellcome Trust found that offering adults in Malawi optional home initiation of HIV care following self-testing increased ART uptake. The results show a significant increase in population-level ART initiations, highlighting the potential of home-based care to improve HIV prevention and treatment.
A potential biomarker associated with participants who experienced a more profound viral load reduction after receiving the vaccine has been identified. The biomarker, anti-C5/gp41732-744 antibody levels above 4μg/ml, may be able to predict which patients will benefit most from the therapeutic HIV vaccine candidate Vacc-4x.
A new study by NYU researchers found that African Americans and Latinos with HIV/AIDS face significant barriers to care, including fear of stigma and distrust of the medical system. Peer-recruitment was found to be nearly twice as effective as in-clinic recruitment for locating and engaging this vulnerable population.
A new study found that over 80% of oral health patients are willing to receive rapid HIV-testing in dental settings. The test can be done with a simple finger prick or saliva swab and results available within 20 minutes. This could help inform people who aren't aware they're HIV-positive and reduce the spread of the virus.
A study published in JAMA reveals that physicians have difficulty recognizing the presence or absence of early HIV infection through clinical exam alone. Routine HIV testing is crucial for early detection and treatment, which can greatly reduce mortality and transmission.
An expressive therapy group intervention, conducted by The Medea Project, assists women living with HIV in disclosing their health status and improving social support, self-efficacy, and relationship safety. The study reveals five core themes: sisterhood, catharsis, self-acceptance, safer relationships, and gaining a voice.
A study by BU researchers found that people arrested by police were more likely to share needles and overdose, increasing HIV transmission and mortality. The study suggests that policing practices contribute to the HIV risk environment and recommends prevention programs and policy changes to address this issue.
A study found that African American women with HIV struggle to manage age-related diseases, social responsibilities, and work-related changes. Researchers suggest increased prevalence of HIV among women of color is a growing concern by 2015.
Scientists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have successfully produced a drug compound featuring the 5P12-Rantes molecule, which could prevent HIV from attaching to human cells. The facility has delivered its first batch of the compound to Mintaka Foundation for formulation as a vaginal cream for clinical trials in South America.
Joslin researchers found that microRNAs play a major role in fat cell development and whole body metabolism. They also discovered that low levels of Dicer expression in fat tissue may contribute to the development of HIV-related lipodystrophy, a complication limiting therapy in some patients.
A novel intravaginal ring demonstrated controlled drug release and safety in pig-tailed macaque monkeys, showing potential for HIV prevention. The ring's topical delivery reduces adherence issues, boosting effectiveness and minimizing side effects.
A new study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and UNAIDS found that scaling up HIV services can achieve substantially lower unit-costs per patient. Integrating these services with other healthcare services, such as tuberculosis treatment, can lead to better value for money.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE reveals that herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) co-infection significantly contributes to the spread of HIV among non-injecting drug users in New York City. The research found a notable increase in HIV infection rates among this demographic, with over half of participants infected with HSV-2.
The ASPIRE trial is testing a vaginal ring containing the antiretroviral drug dapivirine for HIV prevention in women. The study has completed enrollment with 2,629 participants and is expected to conclude by late 2015 or early 2016.
As people with HIV age, they face stigma, social isolation, and increased health risks due to the virus and its treatment. A growing number of individuals are living into their 60s and 70s, highlighting the need for adapted policies and support systems.