Aid against AIDS

A study published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology states that a group of scientists from the United States have found a possible cure to the dreaded AIDS virus. The protein engineered by them can halt the virus’ growth by preventing it from entering cells.

The protein was created through a naturally occurring compound in the human body– the Regulated on Activation, Normal T cell Expressed and Secreted (RANTES), which defends the body from HIV/AIDS virus. Since this compound, which is part of the immune system of the body, couldn’t be used as a drug because of its several biological effects, scientists examined its molecular structure minutely to discover that only a small part of it is responsible for blocking the HIV virus.

Later, they dissected the desired section of the protein and tried to stabilize it without taking away its protective effects. Several sequences of molecular refinement were then experimented with, wherein the protein without harming the body turned out to be a life–saving drug. The protein could also possibly treat inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and lupus.