Genetic Factors Associated with Long-Term HIV Remission After Treatment Cessation
Recent research has shed light on the genetic traits that may enable some individuals to maintain undetectable HIV levels even after discontinuing antiretroviral therapy. Known as "post-treatment controllers," these individuals can sustain virological remission for years, with some controlling the virus for over 25 years without ongoing treatment. This phenomenon highlights the importance of immune system factors, particularly genetic characteristics linked to innate immunity cells like natural killer (NK) cells.
A collaborative study by the Pasteur Institute, Inserm, and the Paris Public Hospital Network analyzed individuals from the VISCONTI cohort and other sources to identify genetic markers associated with HIV control. The research found that certain immunogenetic traits, especially those involving HLA-B∗35 alleles, are overrepresented among post-treatment controllers. These genetic factors correlate with the presence of specific NK cell populations that are more effective at controlling HIV infection.
The study’s analysis of over 1,600 participants in the ANRS CO6 PRIMO cohort further confirmed that these genetic markers help encourage long-term remission, especially in individuals who started treatment early after infection. The immune response driven by these genetic traits appears to facilitate sustained viral suppression even after stopping therapy.
Scientists believe that understanding these genetic and immune mechanisms can pave the way for novel immunotherapies aimed at mobilizing NK cells or mimicking their activity. An ongoing clinical trial, called ANRS 175 RHIVIERA01, launched in March 2023, aims to explore the relationship between genetic markers of NK cells and post-treatment control by closely monitoring individuals with these genetic traits who discontinue treatment.
This discovery holds great promise for developing new strategies to achieve HIV remission or cure, reducing the need for lifelong medication. As Dr. Sáez-Cirión from the Pasteur Institute emphasizes, harnessing the immune system’s innate capacity could represent a significant breakthrough in HIV management, particularly in the face of challenges to universal access to antiretroviral therapy.
Source: MedicalXpress
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Genetic Insights Reveal Y Chromosome's Role in Determining Male Height Differences
Recent research uncovers the significant role of the Y chromosome in determining male height, independent of sex hormones, highlighting the genetic basis of sexual dimorphism.
Emerging Evidence Shows Bilingualism Can Support Language Development in Rett Syndrome
Recent studies indicate that individuals with Rett syndrome, a rare neurological condition, can develop proficiency in multiple languages, challenging previous limitations and opening new avenues for supporting cognitive and linguistic growth.
How Breast Milk Shapes Infant Immune Development and Gut Health
New research reveals that breast milk IgG plays a vital role in calibrating infant immune responses to gut bacteria, promoting long-term gut health and immune tolerance.
Challenges Faced by Emergency Teams During Unplanned, Premature Out-of-Hospital Births
A recent Austrian study reveals the challenges emergency teams face during unplanned, premature out-of-hospital births, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and neonatal equipment on emergency vehicles.