Research on HIV epidemiology and control. Covers prevention policy, HIV-substance use links, TB co-treatment, and clearing infection in newborns.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A recent Indonesian study investigates the relationship between coping mechanisms and self-stigma among people living with HIV. The research found that most participants reported low coping strategies and high levels of self-stigma, revealing a moderate correlation.
A study of 15 brand-name drugs found that competition from 'skinny label' generics saved Medicare nearly $15 billion from 2015 to 2021. The largest savings were seen for rosuvastatin, pregabalin, and imatinib, with actual spending being $16.8 billion versus projected spending of $31.5 billion.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a mouse model of Kaposi sarcoma, which could facilitate the development of new drugs to treat the disease. The model provides a better understanding of angiogenesis and its potential targets for therapy.
Global disease burden rates dropped by 14.2% between 2010 and 2019, but the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted this trend, causing a 4.1% increase in disease burden in 2020 and a 7.2% increase in 2021.
A recent study has found increased coronary vessel wall thickness in asymptomatic individuals living with HIV, which is significantly associated with impaired diastolic function. The study also highlights the impact of HIV on developing subclinical coronary artery disease and its effects on heart function.
A new nanofluidic implant has been shown to deliver an HIV drug with increased potency compared to existing oral medications, providing a potential breakthrough in addressing treatment nonadherence. The device is intended for long-term controlled release and avoids repeated systemic treatment, which can lead to adverse side effects.
A new study by the University of Washington found that condom use has been declining among younger gay and bisexual men, even when not taking PrEP. The study highlights the need for continued education about the benefits of using condoms during sex to reduce HIV transmission rates.
A new approach to fighting HIV has been developed using RNA, specifically small interfering RNAs (siRNA), which regulate gene expression in cells. This nanomedicine was shown to reduce HIV replication by 73% and is intended for vaginal application to prevent sexual transmission.
Research at the University of Bristol found that droughts trigger behavioral changes leading to higher instances of HIV transmission among women in rural sub-Saharan Africa. The study suggests that climate change may exacerbate this issue, particularly for women who rely on farming as their livelihood.
A study by Michigan Medicine University found large disparities in HIV care for Black patients, those with autism, and individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities. These groups were less likely to receive antiretroviral therapy, highlighting the need for better support and education.
Researchers used simulations to model HIV's journey into the nucleus, finding it uses an electrostatic ratchet to squeeze through. The study provides insights into the complex interactions between the virus and cell, suggesting new targets for therapeutic drugs.
A recent study found that doxycycline prophylaxis did not prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among cisgender women, despite being prescribed to 18% of participants. The study also revealed high rates of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, which may be due to low adherence and limited treatment options.
Researchers are shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying HIV replication and viral integration, opening new avenues for tackling the virus. Discoveries suggest that targeting the cell nucleus and harnessing innate immunity may be key to blocking viral replication and persistence.
New HIV diagnoses rose by 31% in the EU/EEA in 2022, with migrants accounting for 49% of cases. Ukrainian refugees made up a significant proportion of new diagnoses, with women disproportionately affected. The increase highlights the need for tailored early testing and treatment approaches to address this growing public health threat.
Researchers created a blood-based test to detect both diseases, measure viral and bacterial loads, and track treatment progress. The test aims to improve patient outcomes by catching immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) earlier.
Researchers at UCLA and Charles Drew University are receiving NIH funding to tackle the HIV epidemic, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as youth, transgender individuals, and Black Americans. The projects will explore innovative implementation strategies to enhance community engagement and support high-quality services.
A University of Florida study found that 36% of people with HIV who own pets reported delaying health care, not seeking it or expecting to do so in the future. Pet ownership can provide emotional and social support, but also poses barriers such as financial concerns and housing access issues.
A UMass Amherst study explores gender differences in HIV-related stigma and social support among people living with HIV experiencing food insecurity in the Dominican Republic. Women described outright rejection, violence, and disempowerment, while men's experiences were more subtle.
A new study led by UCL researchers finds that integrated health care for chronic high-burden conditions like diabetes and hypertension is feasible and cost-effective. The study showed that integrated care was associated with high levels of retention in care, no adverse effect on viral suppression among people with HIV, and cost-saving ...
The study found that tenofovir alafenamide fumarate use is associated with a higher incidence of hypertension and statin initiation, particularly among those over 40. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure and lipids for TAF users is recommended.
A Canadian research team has identified the locations of HIV reservoirs in the body, revealing that they are concentrated in the spleen and lymph nodes. The discovery provides a potential window of opportunity for targeting these reservoirs with future therapies.
Researchers found that Dectin-1 stimulation induced a unique immune signature in HIV-positive older adults, characterized by increased levels of IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-α. This signature may contribute to the pro-inflammatory environment associated with HIV and aging.
The USPSTF recommends prescribing preexposure prophylaxis using effective antiretroviral therapy to individuals at high risk of HIV acquisition. This strategy aims to decrease the risk of acquiring HIV, particularly among the estimated 1.2 million people living with HIV in the US.
Research reveals that a healthy gut microbiome can play a role in the acquisition and severity of HIV and EBV infections. The study found that animals colonized with resident microbiota had higher rates of HIV infection and increased viral loads, suggesting that altering the gut microbiota could be a potential therapeutic approach to c...
A new drug formulation designed for treating children with HIV has shown safety, tolerability, and effectiveness in a study published in The Lancet HIV. The formulation contains three medications and was found to suppress HIV levels below 200 copies/mL in 98% of participants.
Researchers found a novel region in the genome associated with spontaneous control of HIV in populations of African ancestries. CHD1L, a protein involved in DNA repair, shows genetic variation specific to these populations and limits HIV replication in white blood cells.
Researchers at Kyoto University successfully synthesized the structure of Lancilactone C, a rare anti-HIV compound. The team's method revealed an incorrect initial structure and showed that electrocyclization occurs in both synthesis and biosynthesis, leading to potential development of novel antivirals.
A study in The Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (JANAC) found that people with HIV who smoke have higher rates of comorbid health problems, particularly cardiovascular disease and mental health disorders. These comorbidities are associated with demographic factors such as age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
A new study reveals that HIV patients in Washington D.C. were particularly vulnerable to psychosocial challenges like depression, anxiety, and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Older patients were found to be more resilient compared to younger ones, highlighting the importance of social security in weathering intense stressors.
Researchers identified a molecule that allows HIV to hide in reservoirs within CD4+ T lymphocytes. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor protein plays a crucial role in viral latency and has shown potential as a good therapeutic target.
Researchers have found that microglial cells in the brain can serve as a stable viral reservoir for latent HIV. This discovery provides new insights into how to target and eradicate the virus, particularly in the brain or peripheral blood.