Researchers have found a way to make cells resistant to HIV, a new report reveals. In a major breakthrough, scientists have tethered HIV-fighting antibodies to immune cells, creating a cell population resistant to the virus. These resistant cells can quickly replace diseased cells, making it more effective than other therapies – and potentially curing the deadly disease. The researchers plan to collaborate with investigators at City of Hope’s Center for Gene Therapy, in California, to
evaluate this new therapy in efficacy and safety tests, as required by federal regulations, prior to testing in patients. The research, conducted at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) in San Diego, California, first tested their system against rhinovirus, which is responsible for many cases of the common cold. They used a vector called lentivirus to deliver a new gene to cultured human cells. The team then had cells synthesize antibodies that bind with the human cell receptor that rhinovirus needs to gain access. MORE
