November 19, 2016
HIV Breakthrough: Antibody Neutralizes 98% Strains of the Virus
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Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in discovering an antibody that neutralizes 98% strains of the virus.
In an article, the research team at the National Institutes of Health found that the antibody N6 can neutralize 16 of the 20 strains of HIV that have thus far resisted all kinds of medications.
The discovery is the most promising to date, and comes after decades of failed attempts to neutralize the virus, which changes surface proteins quickly to evade recognition.
In fact, N6 is better even than the antibody VRC01, discovered in 2010. Both work by blocking the virus from attaching itself to immune cells. But N6 can better tolerate changes in the HIV envelope.
N6 won't be affected by HIV gathering and attaching sugars to loosen the antibody's grip, and may offer stronger and more durable prevention and treatment benefits.
Scientists are now testing it as an intravenous infusion and may also be able to administer it subcutaneously into the fat under the skin.
