Articles tagged with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
A UCSF study found that delivering HIV prevention services to people living with HIV in clinical settings can sharply reduce their sexual risk behaviors. The intervention, led by medical care providers during routine visits, resulted in a consistent decline in risky behavior over the 12-month study period.
Researchers have identified BanLec, a lectin in bananas, as an effective anti-HIV agent that can inhibit HIV infection by binding to the sugar-rich HIV-1 envelope protein. This discovery could lead to the development of new microcides to prevent sexual transmission of HIV.
Researchers identify a new reservoir for hidden HIV-infected cells in bone marrow, which can serve as a factory for new infections. The discovery opens up new possibilities for treating HIV, particularly for individuals who have been taking anti-viral drugs for their entire life.
Researchers at Universite de Montreal and VGTI have discovered a new mechanism by which HIV infects immune cells, characterizing the role of two molecules PD-1 and IL-10 in this process. The study suggests that blocking these interactions may restore the immune response in HIV-infected patients.
A new HIV vaccine strategy, called 'mosaic vaccines,' has shown promise in expanding immune responses in rhesus monkeys. The approach uses computational methods to create small sets of highly variable artificial viral proteins that stimulate a strong immune response against the diverse forms of HIV.
A systematic review found inadequate coverage of effective interventions for HIV prevention among injecting drug users globally. Only 8% of injectors have accessed needle and syringe programs in the last year, with coverage varying greatly between countries.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that initiating antiretroviral therapy during tuberculosis treatment significantly reduces mortality rates for co-infected patients. The trial, which involved 642 patients, showed a 56% reduction in mortality rates compared to those who received sequential therapy.
A comprehensive population-based study by BC-CfE found that increased HAART coverage was associated with a significant decrease in new yearly HIV infections among injection drug users, resulting in improved health outcomes. The initiative aims to expand HIV treatment and care services for hard-to-reach populations.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine presented Phase II trial data on Lexgenleucel-T, a cell and gene therapy product for HIV treatment. The study showed 88% of evaluable subjects had a decrease in viral load set point, with one subject maintaining complete control of HIV viremia for over 14 weeks.
Researchers aim to improve contraceptive use and reduce unintended pregnancies among HIV-positive women in Kenya. The study, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, will evaluate an integrated model of HIV care and family planning services.
A new study confirms that single-dose nevirapine can lead to HIV treatment failure in women, but only if they start full antiretroviral therapy within a year after the dose. The risk of failure decreases significantly after 12 months.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have discovered that HIV RNA in seminal plasma is transmitted during sex, not HIV DNA. This finding has significant implications for developing prevention strategies, including vaccines and microbicides to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted HIV.
A recent study found that the majority of TB-HIV co-infection cases in San Diego are now among Hispanics, highlighting a significant shift in the disease's ethnic makeup. The results emphasize the need for targeted binational prevention efforts to address the widening health disparities.
Researchers identified two compounds that bind to novel parts of the HIV protease enzyme, which could improve potency of existing treatments and combat drug-resistant strains. These findings open a new approach to drug design against HIV protease, targeting non-active sites that may help restore effectiveness against resistant superbugs.
A new study has found that acyclovir, a common medication used to treat herpes symptoms, does not reduce the transmission of HIV. The research, conducted in seven sub-Saharan countries, suggests that frequent genital herpes recurrences can increase HIV levels in the blood and genital tract.
Researchers have developed a new compound, EFdA, that is 60,000 times more potent than current HIV therapies and can protect cells for longer periods. This compound has the potential to be used in vaginal gels or creams as an alternative preventative strategy for women whose partners refuse to use condoms.
Researchers found HIV reduces brain blood flow even among young patients, accelerating the aging process. Blood flow in HIV brains is comparable to that of uninfected individuals 15-20 years older.
Researchers found that PrEP prevented rectal and intravenous HIV transmission in humanized mice with 90% protection rate. The study suggests PrEP can block multiple routes of HIV transmission, providing a promising approach to prevent new infections.
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 Cochrane Systematic Review found that home-based nursing in HIV/AIDS patients significantly improves self-reported knowledge of HIV, awareness of medications, and self-reported adherence to medication programmes. Home-based care also had a positive impact on HIV stigma, worry, and physical functioning.
A recent study found that HIV patients who switch from lopinavir-ritonavir to raltegravir experience a reduction in blood fat levels, but the rate of viral suppression is lower in the raltegravir group. The results suggest that clinicians need to consider individual patient factors when making treatment decisions.
Researchers found that unique reading frames in the HIV genome can induce immune responses, potentially leading to new ways to combat the virus. These findings may prove useful for developing more effective HIV vaccines.
A study published by The Translational Genomics Research Institute found that circumcision significantly alters the bacterial communities of the penis, reducing anaerobic bacteria and increasing aerobic bacteria. This change may contribute to lower HIV risk and protection against bacterial vaginosis in women.
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.
UCSF researchers found that offering rapid HIV tests to patients in community health centers significantly increases the number of patients screened for HIV. The study saw a nearly three-fold increase in screenings from 3,000 to over 11,000 patients.
New research suggests HIV-related cognitive deficits share a common link with Alzheimer's-related dementia: low levels of the protein amyloid beta in spinal fluid. This study can help find the cause of cognitive impairment in HIV patients and may impact new Alzheimer's treatments.
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.
A meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 1862 HIV patients found no statistically significant difference between directly observed and self-administered antiretroviral therapy in promoting virological suppression. This suggests that directly observed therapy may not be necessary to support adherence in the general patient population.
A new study finds that approximately 31% of patients with HIV report an improved quality of life after diagnosis. The main factors associated with this improvement are optimism and spirituality, while lower levels of these traits can lead to a perceived decline in quality of life.
Researchers found that unacculturated Hispanics had fewer HIV tests and were more likely to test positive. Interventions must address cultural differences to reduce the growing rate of HIV/AIDS among Hispanics.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that home-based HIV care is an effective strategy, relying less on clinical staff and hospital services than facility-based care. This approach provides large savings for patients and could improve equitable access to HIV treatment, especially in areas with scarce clinical infrastructure.
A recent study found that only 60% of pregnant women in Eastern and Southern Africa were tested for HIV in 2007. The authors suggest that women may be avoiding testing due to opt-out policies or concerns about the stigma associated with HIV. This highlights the need for increased awareness and access to HIV screening in these regions.
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.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified a functional importance seam in the HIV coat that could lead to new treatments for blocking HIV infection. The findings may allow scientists to rationally design therapeutic compounds that interfere with assembly and function of the protein.
Researchers at German Cancer Research Center find that HIV virus rarely integrates into genes with high transcription activity. This discovery could lead to the development of specific AIDS drugs targeting these 'cold spots', potentially offering a new approach to combat the virus.
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.
A study by Indiana University found that using lubricants during sex significantly improves the pleasurable and satisfying aspects of sexual activity for both men and women. The research also showed that vaginal tearing is rare when lubricant is used, occurring in less than 1% of cases.
Researchers at Yale University developed synthetic molecules that enhance the body's immune response to HIV and prostate cancer cells. The molecules work by binding to antibodies and proteins on infected cells, triggering an immune response and preventing infection.
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.
Researchers will use web-based, patient-controlled personal health records to improve health and HIV prevention outcomes for HIV positive patients. The studies aim to assess the effectiveness of mobile phone text messages and a strategy called SBIRT in reducing drug and alcohol use and improving antiretroviral medication adherence.
Experts are conducting a large-scale study to measure the hearing of people with HIV/AIDS and compare it to those without, aiming to uncover the relationship between the disease and hearing loss. The research, supported by a $1.9 million grant, will also explore potential factors contributing to age-related hearing loss in these patients.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed Open Data Kit, a versatile platform for collecting, storing, and analyzing mobile data. Organizations worldwide are using it to gather information on global health, environment, and human rights issues, enabling evidence-based decision-making.
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 clinical trial found that adding two antiretroviral drugs to single-dose nevirapine effectively reduces drug resistance in mothers and babies. The combination regimen is safe, easy to provide, and effective in preventing subsequent nevirapine resistance.
Two University of Washington studies show that drinking alcohol doubles the risk of non-adherence to HIV medication. A third study found that peer support, electronic pagers, or both had no lasting impact on adherence rates. The challenges of adhering to life-long HIV treatment highlight the need for individualized comprehensive programs.
Researchers argue that concurrency is not a major driver of the HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa due to lack of conclusive evidence. They suggest that other factors are more likely to contribute to the spread of the virus, and recommend further research initiatives.
A UCLA study found that HIV stigma is a strong predictor of poor access to medical care and suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Individuals experiencing high levels of internalized stigma were more likely to report poor access to care and lower medication adherence.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered compounds that interact with Nef protein, which plays an essential role in AIDS progression. These compounds also inhibit HIV replication and may slow disease progression.
In a Rwandan pilot program, nurses safely and effectively prescribed antiretroviral therapy to patients with HIV after completing at least 50 consultations. The study found that patients who received treatment showed improved health outcomes, including increased weight gain and CD4 cell counts.
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 used genetic and geographic data to understand why HIV-1 subtypes held steady in west central Africa before erupting as an epidemic in east Africa. The study found that connectivity between population centers and better transportation networks contributed to the rapid spread of the virus.
A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that HIV transmission in UK heterosexuals can occur within networks of up to 30 people. The research used phylodynamics to reconstruct viral sequence divergence, revealing smaller clusters and slower transmission rates compared to homosexual men.
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.
The HIV Nef protein inhibits cell mobility in immune cells, disrupting their ability to establish contact and combat the virus. This mechanism may lead to the malfunction of B-lymphocytes in AIDS patients.
Researchers have identified two powerful new antibodies to HIV that reveal a potential Achilles heel on the virus. The discovery offers new avenues for designing an effective AIDS vaccine and may lead to the identification of additional vulnerabilities in the virus.
Two new broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) have been discovered to target the HIV virus, providing a promising lead for AIDS vaccine development. The newly found antibodies, PG9 and PG16, attach to a novel site on the virus, making them more accessible for vaccine design.
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.
Despite notable achievements in disease management, South Africa faces a severe HIV and tuberculosis crisis, with 17% of the global burden. The country needs to escalate its public health response to tackle rising drug resistance and improve treatment outcomes.