Scientists Cut Out HIV DNA From Infected Cells
The Facts
Scientists at the Netherlands' Amsterdam University Medical Center say they've used the Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR-Cas gene editing technology to remove all traces of HIV from infected cells in a laboratory.
In their research, presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, the scientists applied CRISPR-Cas "scissors" to cut the HIV DNA at designated spots.
The Spin
Narrative A
Existing HIV medications can stop the spread of the virus but can't eliminate it. This research raises hopes that the deadly infectious illness can be completely cured through a robust and safe CRISPR-Cas regimen, which can track down and chop the virus in secret reservoirs. Though the research won't immediately translate into a cure, these preliminary findings are encouraging.
Narrative B
HIV creates a secret reservoir of infected cells that remain hidden from the immune system and antiretroviral therapy, which is why, while its future may look promising, further research is needed to ensure the technology would be safe and effective to rid a patient of HIV completely. As this is not peer-reviewed, a full evaluation of the research is necessary to address its possible long-term side effects.
