Australian scientists have made a world-first breakthrough in the search for an HIV cure by adapting the same mRNA technology used in COVID-19 vaccines. Instead of preventing infection, this approach aims to flush out hidden HIV so it can be eliminated.
Current HIV treatments suppress the virus but cannot cure it because HIV hides in resting CD4+ T cells, forming a “reservoir” that reactivates if treatment stops. This has been a major barrier to finding a cure.
Led by the Doherty Institute, researchers used newly designed lipid nanoparticles, tiny fat-like bubbles, to deliver mRNA into HIV-infected cells. Once inside, the mRNA signalled the cells to expose the dormant virus. This marks the first time such a strategy has worked so effectively in the lab.
“This is a huge step forward,” said Dr Paula Cevaal, co-author of the study. “We now have a way to reach the virus where it hides and draw it out.”
Professor Sharon Lewin, Director of the Doherty Institute, called it a major milestone that opens the door to future therapies. The team is now preparing for preclinical testing.
Researchers also believe the technique may help treat other diseases, including some cancers and autoimmune conditions.
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