Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1999. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
|
|
United Press International - Friday, November 12, 1999
The researchers write in the Nov. 12 issue of Science that their findings overturn beliefs that the virus, which causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome, could not reproduce in dormant cells and explains why the disease comes back once drug treatments are interrupted or ended. The discovery also makes it less likely an effective vaccine can be developed.
"This virus is brilliant. It's really crafty," said Ashley Haase, who helped author the study.
Haase said the research confirms what has been suspected for quite some time -- that it is unlikely drugs will cure the disease because the drugs target active cells. T-cells can stay dormant for years and apparently are infected by the virus as quickly as three days after exposure.
"We had hoped to cure people so we (could) throw those pills away," Haase said. "We can't do that."
The studies were done with monkeys and later confirmed in humans. The research showed AIDS "percolates along at a low level until it gets into cells where it can replicate at high levels," Haase said.
Haase said one positive aspect of the research is the discovery that the virus tries to reproduce locally before it spreads, which could give a vaccine as much as a week to work. This suggests a two-pronged treatment: administering just enough drugs to keep the virus at bay, followed by treatments that bolster a patient's immune system.
In addition to the University of Minnesota, seven medical centers in the United States, Germany and the Netherlands participated in the study.
991112
UP991101
Copyright © 1999 - United Press International. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through United Press International, Permissions Desk, 1510 H St. N.W. Washington DC 2005. Main Phone Switchboard: 202-898-8000 FAX: 202-898-8057 or 202-898-8147 Email: info@upi.com.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Elton John AIDS Foundation UK, the National Library of Medicine, AIDS Walk of Orange County, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1999. 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, 1999. 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. .