AEGiS-FDA: FDA Scientists Uncover Factors In The Selective Nature of Sexually-Transmitted HIV

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1997. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

FDA Scientists Uncover Factors In The Selective Nature of Sexually-Transmitted HIV

Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - December 2, 1997

FDA researchers have discovered factors which may make certain strains of HIV-1 more likely to be transmitted through sexual contact than others. These findings, published in the December 1997 issue of Nature Medicine, may have important ramifications for the development of vaccines and post-HIV-1 exposure agents. The research was done in collaboration with scientists at the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health.

FDA's researchers at the agency's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Review (CBER), found that surface molecules or receptors for the M-tropic strains of the HIV-1 virus are functionally active on certain cells (Langerhans and macrophages) found in the body's mucosal tissues, and allow infection.

A related "News and Views" article published in the same issue of Nature Medicine notes that this finding provides very valuable insight into the mechanisms of HIV-1 transmission and selection processes. This understanding, in turn, could prove to be critical in more effectively targeting vaccine or post-exposure methods for combating HIV-1.
971202
FD971202

SOURCE: Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you.

Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1997. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 1997. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .