Could cows be the clue that leads to an HIV vaccine?

Conclusion This early stage research on cows indicates that they had a broad and quick immune response to HIV infection when given a specific vaccine. Because the immune proteins produced in cows are able to neutralise many different strains of HIV virus, the authors suggest this potentially gives them an edge over the human proteins that have been looked at so far. As always with animal studies it is important to remember that what works in cows might not work in the same way in humans. Many drug studies that appear promising at first, fall at the first hurdle once humans are involved. The study was also carried out on just four cows and the most promising finding – neutralisation of 96% of HIV strains in 381 days – was found in just one cow. It is therefore best seen as promising early research, rather than a proven cure. While we all hope an HIV vaccine or cure may be on the horizon, until that time, using a condom during penetrative, oral and anal sex is the most effective method of preventing infection with HIV. Links To The Headlines 'Mind-blowing' cows hold clue to beating HIV. BBC News, July 21 2017 Scientists may be one step closer to a cure for HIV: Injection prevents the virus spreading and could rid sufferers of the disease. Mail Online, July 21 2017 Links To Science Sok D, Le KM. Vadnais M, et al. Rapid elicitation of broadly neutralizing antibodies to HIV by immunization in cows. Nature. Published online July 20 2017
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medication Source Type: news