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So recently I was browsing the internet with no particular thought in mind and I came across a headline that caught my attention. Apparently, a cure for HIV is foreseeable in the very near future. Yes! You read that right, a cure for this disease which has claimed over 39 million lives since the beginning of this epidemic could be made available in as soon as 3 years’ time. And once again, we have the advancement of science and technology to thank for this milestone that could lead to the enhancement and betterment of the millions of people out there living with the virus.
What is HIV?
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight infections. It is commonly spread by having unprotected sex. In the later stages HIV is also called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
How?
It is reported that scientists have found a way to successfully snip away the virus from infected cells and prevent the disease from returning. Based on previous American researcher’s findings, it has been shown that it is possible to edit genes and to cut the virus from the DNA cells entirely. This disease which is typically spread through unprotected sex and through the sharing of needles for recreational drug use, could very well be on its way to history books.
This new technique is called Crispr/Cas9. It works by targeting the genetic code of HIV which inserts into cells. Scientists then take the Cas9 protein and edit it so it can recognize viral code. Experts believe that this treatment, which has only been tested in labs so far, would provide the body the ability to “cure itself from the inside,” Moreover; the human immune cells that were tested in the labs have shown no alteration to any other part of the genetic code.
Scientist would then inject Cas9 into the blood taken from patients, whereby it would then seek out the HIV virus in the cells. This protein would then release an enzyme which would then snip out the virus. Experts are also confident that replacing 20 percent of immune cells with genetically altered cells would be enough to actually cure the virus.
Based on these findings, those currently living with HIV could probably breathe a sigh of relief – this new breakthrough in the medical field brings them a new sense of hope. In addition, this breakthrough in the field of HIV only goes on to show that with the current rate at which science and technology is making advancement, there could be a cure for almost any types of sicknesses or diseases which can impact the lives of millions around the world.
Isn’t it amazing what we once thought was an impossible feat is now becoming a ray of hope for millions around the world? What other incurable diseases do you guys know of that has made major advancements in terms of a cure? Let us know in the comments section below.
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by Kevin
An average 22 year old with an unquenchable thirst for adventure and new experiences. Living life as it comes :) View all articles by Kevin.
