Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1984. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
The New York Times - October 11, 1984
Harold M. Schmeck Jr.
Dr. Robert C. Gallo of the National Cancer Institute called the evidence "a little bit disconcerting." AIDS destroys the body's ability to fight infection.
Dr. Gallo gave the final address at the seventh annual Bristol-Myers Symposium on Cancer Research held at the Rockefeller University Monday and Tuesday. At a news conference after his talk, he said he did not know yet whether the variations in AIDS genes would actually be a problem for vaccine development. He said the variations do not seem to be as great as those among varieties of the influenza A virus. Nevertheless, he said, the new findings are "worrisome."
Differences in Viruses
Differences among influenza A viruses are great enough to require a different vaccine for each of the main subtypes.
Dr. Gallo said his group had almost completely analyzed the genetic material of the virus HTLV 3, which is widely believed to cause AIDS. Genetic variations have been found among different samples, he said.
The genetic material was analyzed in a process in which the virus genes are investigated so thoroughly that the identity and order of each of the thousands of sub units in the chains of genetic material are known. It is through this genetic analysis that genetic variations can be detected most accurately.
Dr. Gallo said variations had been found in the genes for the envelope, or exterior, of the AIDS virus particle. Such variations might make a difference the effect of a vaccine.
The scientist said also that present evidence indicates that HTLV 3, a virus that he discovered, and LAV, a virus French scientists say causes AIDS, are actually the same virus.
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