We do not havea remedy or a vaccinefor the human immunodeficiency virus , more normally cognize as HIV , yet but existing treatments secure that people with the computer virus can survive foresightful and healthy lives . The management of the virus includes the utilization of multiple antiretroviral drug , so there is an interest in making more streamlined and efficient treatments .
A new potential long - playact discourse is reported in the journalNature . Researchers have developed a small molecule called GS-6207 , which targets the shell of the virus , the capsid , where the genetic material is enclosed . The design mote truss tightly to the capsid and this create problems for the lifecycle of the computer virus , stop it from replicating .
A major advantage of the drug is that it does n’t have to be take day by day . trial show that it remains active in the physical structure for more than six months after administration , so investigator envision it to be injected under the hide twice a twelvemonth . This is particularly advantageous in help citizenry keep up with discourse .
In lab test , the drug has been shown to be effective against multiple strains of HIV , including variants that are resistant to current antiretroviral agents . It not only can be used as a handling , but it might also be used preventatively in at - risk groups , similar to the way the Pre - exposure Prophylaxis ( PrEP ) pill works . The teamdescribes itas “ a potentially transformative tool in efforts to end the global HIV epidemic . ”
While exciting , it is still early days . foremost , the squad ran a clinical study in 40 healthy individuals demonstrating that the drug is generally safe . A subsequent clinical trial was conducted in 32 patient with untreated HIV-1 and a unmarried loony toons of GS-6207 reduced the viral encumbrance significantly in just nine days . It did not , however , lead to entire clearance . Fortunately , the molecule can work together with sanction antiretroviral drugs , so it could serve as a combination handling .
achieve an insensible viral loading is fundamental for treatments . It has been wide demonstrated that the many people that reach insensible status can not pass on the computer virus , a concept live as U = U orundetectable equals untransmittable .
It ’s an exciting step fore , but there is still much to be done to improve the lives of citizenry with HIV . Health is more than the absence of disease and while multitude with HIV can live perfectly intelligent lives they still have to face stigma and discrimination . Many people survive with the virus still struggle to access treatment for many reason , and it is crucial for the many social and economical barrier to be take aim down .
