Gene Therapy Approach 'Completely' Protects Mice From HIV Infection

Pierre Bezukhov writes "Scientists from the California Institute of Technology have come up with a gene therapy approach that has proven effective in protecting mice (with humanized immune systems) against HIV infections. They used a genetically altered virus to infect muscles cells and deliver DNA codes of potent antibodies isolated from the blood of human HIV victims (abstract). The muscle cells then began to manufacture the antibodies in quantities that proved 'completely protective' against HIV infection. By contrast, traditional vaccines have not worked against HIV, as scientists have failed to find a molecule that induces the immune system to produce enough potent antibodies. The difficulties stem from the fact that HIV disguises some of its external structures from the antibodies."

Comments

Re:Oh internets.

[cayenne8]

Hmm.....

It would be sweet if AIDS were no longer a threat.

They day they announce the cure.....I'm guessing if you can't get laid that day...you're never gonna get laid.

Re:Gay Mice

[sunderland56]

This is *great* news for gay mice. Ever try to put on one of those tiny little condoms without tearing it with your claws?

Re:How to conduct human trials

[cayenne8]

I believe HIV trials are usually conducted using volunteers that knowingly engage in high-risk behaviours

So, the trials for this are going down in San Francisco?

This is a huge relief

[Brooklynoid]

Now I can have unprotected sex with mice and not worry about getting AIDS