Introduction

An available blood cancer drug has demonstrated significant effectiveness in eliminating dormant HIV cells both in animal models and in human cells from individuals infected with the virus. This groundbreaking preclinical finding has the potential to pave the way for a cure for HIV.

The Challenge of Hidden HIV Cells

Hidden HIV cells, also known as latent infections, are responsible for the persistent presence of the virus in the body. Unfortunately, current treatment methods are ineffective against these dormant cells. Consequently, individuals with HIV need lifelong treatment to suppress the virus.

Promising Research and Potential for a Cure

A landmark study conducted by the Walter and Eliza Hall Medical Research Institute (WEHI) and the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity has identified a potential solution. The study explores the repurposing of a leukemia treatment to develop a pathway for HIV treatment. This research is now being developed into a new clinical trial.

The Global Impact of HIV

With an estimated 39 million people worldwide living with HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) has become the standard of care, proving highly effective. Nevertheless, ART cannot target dormant HIV-infected cells, meaning it can only suppress the virus rather than cure it. As a result, lifelong treatment is necessary to prevent the virus from reemerging if the medication is discontinued.

Progress with Venetoclax

In a recent study, scientists utilized the anti-cancer drug venetoclax in improved preclinical models of HIV. They discovered that even without antiretroviral therapy, venetoclax delayed the virus’s recovery by two weeks. This finding represents an exciting step towards developing treatment options for millions of individuals living with HIV worldwide.

Combination Therapy and Future Possibilities

The study also revealed the potential for combining venetoclax with another drug currently undergoing clinical trials. This combination resulted in a longer delay in virus recovery with a shorter duration of venetoclax treatment. The results highlight the potential of venetoclax as a weapon against HIV, while acknowledging the need for multiple drugs to completely eradicate the virus.

Understanding HIV and Venetoclax’s Mechanism

HIV primarily targets CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for a properly functioning immune system. These cells serve as the dormant reservoir for HIV, ready to reactivate if the virus is not effectively eliminated. Through experiments with CD4+ T cells donated by individuals living with HIV, scientists discovered that venetoclax reduced the amount of HIV DNA in these cells, selectively killing infected cells that rely on specific proteins for survival.

Conclusion

This groundbreaking research brings us closer to finding a cure for HIV. By attacking dormant HIV cells and delaying the virus’s recovery, the blood cancer drug venetoclax offers promising results beyond currently approved treatments. Further exploration and clinical trials will be key in advancing our understanding and potentially preventing the re-emergence of this disease in humans.

Source: Medical Express