Researchers have reported the first “cure” of HIV in a young child. The infant underwent anti-retroviral therapy shortly after birth, and scientists say that this may have prevented the formation of “reservoirs” of the virus that make typical infections so persistent. A team of researchers from Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, the University of Mississippi Medical… [Continue Reading]
Many Patients Don’t Tell Health Care Staff They Are HIV-Positive
February 14, 2013 By Leave a Comment
The treatment and care of individuals infected with HIV may be impaired, doctors say, after a study has revealed that many patients don’t tell health care providers about their infection. A significant proportion of HIV positive patients may not be disclosing their infection to NHS staff, when turning up for treatment at sexual health clinics,… [Continue Reading]
Sequence of HIV Genome Reveals Vaccine’s Effects
September 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In a major breakthrough, scientists have been able to show that on a molecular level, an HIV vaccine puts observable pressure on the virus. The work reveals aspects of the virus’ biology that could help researchers develop even more effective vaccines. Scientists used genetic sequencing to discover new evidence that the first vaccine shown to… [Continue Reading]
Drug Regimen Being Tested For HIV Infection Prevention
July 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A drug called maraviroc is part of current treatments for HIV infection, and researchers are now testing whether the compound can also prevent infection. Clinical trials are underway, where HIV-negative men are given the drug or a placebo, as well as AIDS prevention counseling, with infection rates measured after about four months. Scientists are launching… [Continue Reading]
Identifying HIV Patients with Risky Behavior Essential to Prevent Spread of Virus
July 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A one-size-fits-all approach is not sufficient to stem the spread of HIV, according to researchers. A number of scientists have proposed targeted prevention by identifying specific patient groups that have different behavior. For example, prevention strategies should be different between patients who unaware they carry the virus and those who willfully engage in risky behaviors…. [Continue Reading]
Patients With Multiple HIV Infections May Be Widespread
June 7, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Being infected with multiple forms of HIV is called superinfection, and complicates treatment. A new study indicates that superinfection may be much more common that originally thought, Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) superinfection may be as common as initial HIV infection and is not limited to high risk-populations, according to a new study led by researchers… [Continue Reading]
Changing Immune System Gives Insights into HIV Infection
May 30, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Research in a monkey model of HIV infection has shown that the immune system undergoes distinct changes which are correlated to resistance to the virus. The work suggests that a particular type of immune cell may help hold the virus at bay. After being infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) in a laboratory study, rhesus… [Continue Reading]