New Delhi, July 26 (IANS) An experimental cancer drug may hold the key to clearing HIV from infected brain cells, according to a new study.
The study led by Dr. Woong-Ki Kim at Tulane University, US, reveals that the drug significantly reduced levels of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) in the brain — nonhuman primate equivalent of HIV in humans.
For the first time, scientists at the Tulane National Primate Research Center targeted specific immune cells harbouring the virus in the brain.
Dr Kim called the findings “an important step in tackling brain-related issues caused by HIV”. Even though there are effective medications for HIV, it still leads to brain issues.
The drug which “specifically targets the infected cells in the brain, may be able to clear the virus from the hidden areas” — a major challenge in HIV treatment, said Dr Kim.
The challenge of eliminating HIV from the brain stems from the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain but also prevents effective treatment. The virus hides in long-lived cells known as macrophages, contributing to neurocognitive issues in nearly half of those living with HIV.
In the study, published in the journal Brain, researchers used the small molecule inhibitor BLZ945, previously studied for ALS and brain cancer, to block a receptor in HIV-infected macrophages. This led to a 95-99 per cent reduction in viral DNA in the brain without harming microglia, essential for brain health, or causing liver toxicity.
The study employed three groups of primates: an untreated control group and two groups treated with low or high doses of the drug for 30 days. The high-dose group showed a significant reduction in HIV receptor sites.
The next step involves testing this therapy alongside antiretroviral treatment (ART) to evaluate its potential in a comprehensive HIV eradication strategy.
This innovative approach could revolutionise HIV treatment and significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the virus.
–IANS
ts/rvt/dan
Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by TodayIndia.news and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of TodayIndia.news We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, TodayIndia.news takes no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.
For any legal details or query please visit original source link given with news or click on Go to Source.
Our translation service aims to offer the most accurate translation possible and we rarely experience any issues with news post. However, as the translation is carried out by third part tool there is a possibility for error to cause the occasional inaccuracy. We therefore require you to accept this disclaimer before confirming any translation news with us.
If you are not willing to accept this disclaimer then we recommend reading news post in its original language.