VA Researchers Discover a Natural Antibody Potentially Capable of Preventing HIV Infection
Summary
The antibody identified by Tom Lum and Dr. Jon Green has the potential to act like a “natural” vaccine and prevent people from becoming infected with HIV, say the researchers.The scientists collected blood samples for more than two years from patients in geographic areas with high (Thailand) and low (USA) risks of HIV-infection.Scientists speculate that future research will study a person’s natural immunity and production anti-HIV antibodies to understand how to terminate HIV before the onset of infection.Science has shown that the first 24 hours are critical in stopping the reproduction of the virus.Under normal conditions interferon is not made rapidly enough, or in high enough concentrations to prevent HIV infection.The scientists collected blood samples for more than two years from patients in geographic areas with high (Thailand) and low (USA) risks of HIV-infection.