Targeting HIV's Sugar Coating

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a precursor to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) which causes the immune system of the host to fail. This leads to a high mortality rate in the victims and is prevalent in developing countries. HIV infection is caused by the transfer of body fluids in unsafe sex, contaminated needles, and perinatal transmission. In this infection, important cells from the immune system such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and helper T cells. These cells are killed off by increased rates of apoptosis, and once the body becomes more and more accessible to other, more common infections.

Researchers at the University of Utah have found a group of compounds that hinder AIDS from infecting cells. These gels, consisting of synthetic lectins that bind with sugars found on the envelope surrounding the virus. Dr. Kiser, the study’s senior author, has made a great step towards the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

The article can be viewed here:

http://insciences.org/article.php?article_id=10368