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David Harrich, a researcher at
Australia’s Queensland Institute of Medical Research, reported that he has
modified an HIV protein to interrupt the replication of the virus and prevent
HIV from developing into AIDS. According to his research, the modified
protein—named Nullbasic by Harrich—has been successful in laboratory tests.
The modified protein would not be a
cure for HIV. In contrast with HIV treatments that aim to eliminate the virus,
Nullbasic would interrupt the disease process and prevent HIV-infected people
from developing AIDS. The laboratory will begin testing the modified HIV
protein in animals this year. Even if animal testing is successful, Harrich
estimated treatment for HIV-infected people is still some years away. However,
he stated the treatment could eliminate costly multi-drug treatments, save
money for governments, and improve quality of life for HIV-infected people.
The United Nations estimates there
were 34 million HIV-infected people in the world in 2011. Most of these—23.5
million—live in sub-Saharan Africa. Another 4.2 million HIV-infected people
live in southern Asia or Southeast Asia.
The Friends of AIDS Foundation is
dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and
empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV
virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.
TOGETHER WE REMAIN STRONG!
