Breakthrough Treatments Developed to Prevent Life-Threatening HTLV-1 Virus Infection

A pioneering study led by Australian researchers has unveiled potential first-of-its-kind treatments to combat the deadly human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1). This virus infects T-cells, a vital component of the immune system, and affects approximately 10 million people worldwide. Despite its significant health impact, HTLV-1 remains a poorly understood disease with no current preventive treatments or cure.

The groundbreaking research, published in the journal Cell, demonstrates that existing antiretroviral medications used for HIV can also suppress HTLV-1 transmission. The study involved creating the world's first humanized mouse model that mimics human immune response, allowing scientists to observe how HTLV-1 behaves in a living organism. Transplanted with human immune cells susceptible to infection, these mice were treated with tenofovir and dolutegravir—antivirals already approved for HIV treatment—and showed a substantial reduction in viral activity.

Lead researcher Dr. Marcel Doerflinger from WEHI emphasized the significance: "Our research marks the first successful suppression of HTLV-1 in a living organism, opening new avenues for treatment and prevention." As symptoms from HTLV-1 can take decades to manifest, early intervention to prevent infection could protect immune health and prevent severe diseases like leukemia and spinal cord inflammation.

Furthermore, the study identified a novel drug target involving the MCL-1 protein, which helps infected cells survive. Combining antiviral drugs with therapies that inhibit MCL-1 could lead to a cure by eliminating infected cells, a strategy currently under development. The research also highlighted differences between HTLV-1 strains, especially the highly aggressive HTLV-1c strain prevalent in Australian First Nations communities, providing crucial insights for tailored disease management.

Advocacy efforts have played a vital role. Researchers collaborated with health organizations to have HTLV-1 officially classified as a Threatening Pathogen by the World Health Organization in 2021, promoting guidelines for reducing transmission and managing infections.

Although HTLV-1 remains under-recognized, this research offers promising steps toward effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. The team is now working to include HTLV-1 patients in clinical trials of existing HIV medications, aiming to develop preventive strategies and eventual cures.

This study, a decade in the making, underscores the potential of repurposing existing drugs to address neglected viral infections and save lives.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-world-treatments-life-threatening-virus.html