06.06.2025 19:30
Scientists from Australia have announced a new hope for HIV treatment. They have developed a new method that makes HIV, which can hide from the immune system and medications, visible within white blood cells.
```html
Scientists have developed a new method that allows HIV, which can hide from the immune system and drugs, to become visible within white blood cells.
A BREAKTHROUGH STEP IN HIV TREATMENT
Researchers from the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity in Melbourne, Australia, have taken a step towards completely eliminating HIV from the human body. The foundation of the research is based on mRNA technology, which is known from Covid-19 vaccines. The scientists delivered the mRNA, which they placed in specially formulated lipid capsules, to the white blood cells where HIV hides. This mRNA sends a signal to the cells to expose the virus.
NEW METHOD REVEALS HIDDEN HIV
The study demonstrated that a next-generation nanoparticle design called 'LNP X' was accepted by these cells. These cells did not accept previous generation nanoparticles, and the hiding of HIV there hindered treatment. Dr. Paula Cevaal, a co-author of the research, stated, "It was previously thought to be impossible to deliver mRNA to these cells. However, now, we are all almost breathless in the face of the results we have obtained."
This discovery proved that HIV could be extracted from the reservoir where it remains 'dormant' in the body. However, the next critical question still awaits an answer: Once this virus is exposed, can it be completely eradicated by the immune system or additional therapies? The study was conducted on cells taken from HIV-positive individuals in a laboratory setting. Before it can be tested on real patients, animal trials and then safety and efficacy studies will need to be conducted. It is noted that this process could take years.
COULD ALSO BE USED IN CANCER DISEASES
Dr. Michael Roche, the senior author of the research, stated that this technique could be used not only for HIV but also for other diseases like cancer.
Dr. Jonathan Stoye, a retrovirologist from the Francis Crick Institute, noted that this method represents "the greatest advancement so far" in extracting HIV from its hiding place. However, Stoye warned, "Whether the entire reservoir needs to be eliminated to eradicate this virus, or if a large portion will suffice, time will tell."
On the other hand, Prof. Tomas Hanke from the Jenner Institute at Oxford University acknowledged the importance of this discovery but stated that "reaching all HIV reservoirs in the body is currently just a dream."
This new study is considered one of the most concrete scientific advancements towards a permanent treatment for the disease to date.
```