Researchers from Temple University and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) have made significant advancements in HIV treatment through a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They explored a novel gene-editing therapy that targets both HIV-1 and the CCR5 co-receptor, which aids the virus’s entry into cells. This groundbreaking approach combines dual gene-editing techniques with antiretroviral therapies to successfully cure HIV-infected animals for the first time.
Led by Dr. Kamel Khalili and Dr. Howard E. Gendelman, the research builds on previous findings demonstrating that HIV can be excised from the genomes of infected mice. They utilized a long-acting slow-effective release (LASER) antiretroviral therapy to maintain low HIV levels, although rebound infections remained a concern. To counteract this, the team developed a dual CRISPR system designed for the permanent elimination of HIV.
Their results showed significant viral suppression and restoration of healthy T-cells in 58% of treated mice. The researchers also plan to test their methods in non-human primate models. This innovative and cost-effective gene-editing approach holds immense promise for future HIV treatments.
