Slashdot Mirror
Gene Found In Black Death Survivors Stops HIV
WindozeSux writes "According to research done by Dr. Stephen O'Brien, a mutated gene known as delta 32 found in Black Death survivor descendants, stops HIV in its tracks. In order to be immune both parents have to have the delta 32 gene. From the Article: 'In 1996, research showed that delta 32 prevents HIV from entering human cells and infecting the body. O'Brien thought this principle could be applied to the plague bacteria, which affects the body in a similar manner. To determine whether the Eyam plague survivors may have carried delta 32, O'Brien tested the DNA of their modern-day descendents...'"
Only problem with that is that more than 30% of the population in some areas and 1.1% worldwide (in 2003) are carriers... so you already only had 98.9% back in 2003. More likely than not, things have gotten at least somewhat worse since then.
I suspect that the people who have contracted HIV from their mother or from infected blood would disagree with you.
In addition, it is slowly mutating. It is only a matter of time before a gene comes along that makes it easier to catch. Most likely it will not be airborne, but would more likely become arthopod-bourne (mosquitos).
I prefer the "u" in honour as it seems to be missing these days.