An international group of researchers has uncovered the mechanisms of genes that may inhibit the virility of the HIV-1 virus. The two proteins, SERINC5 and SERINC3 are typically found in the cell membrane of a cell. The HIV-1 virus has 9 genes, one of them coding for the protein HIV-1 Nef, which accounts for much of the viral ability of HIV. HIV-1 Nef also prevents SERINC5 and SERINC3 from reaching the cell membrane or being incorporated into new virions. In the absence of Nef, new virions can leave the host cell and attempt unsuccessfully to infect other cells because the SERINC proteins prevent the HIV virus from leaving the viral envelope. With the presence of SERINC proteins, research say the virility of HIV is reduced by 100-fold.
The research is pointing towards a promising future in viral studies, as HIV has become rampant over the years. Current medicine usually keep the virus at bay and infected individuals manage to have normal, functioning lives. Even so, they still have to live with the stigma of their infection and infected people who do not get diagnosed early may suffer greater consequences. With SERINC's anti-retroviral ability, this could lead to a more effective treatment option for HIV/AIDs and treatment of other enveloped viruses.
Original article
SERINC
HIV/AIDS
This is really interesting! This is the first time that I've heard of something that could counteract HIV. It's amazing how SERINC proteins would be effective in disabling HIV. Hopefully, this will give us some promise.
ReplyDeleteI find this very interesting because I have never heard of this discovery before, especially like you said HIV has become rampant over the years. It is remarkable how these proteins could have the ability to create a more effective treatment option for people that have HIV/AIDS. I also find it very interesting that it could also be a treatment of other enveloped viruses.
ReplyDeleteAnother important thing to consider is the immense costs of HIV/AIDS medicine that keep the disease contained. The plethora of pills required to take every day can cost hundreds of dollars each. Aside from the other obvious benefits, hopefully these alleves the financial burden.
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