Researchers Use Vectors to Deliver HIV Drug and Suppress Virus in Macaques for Up to One Year

Researchers have utilized adeno-associated vectors to administer the CCR5-blocking HIV drug leronlimab, according to a report from a scientific publication. The approach involves a single dose that prompts the expression of leronlimab in the body. This method showed the ability to partially suppress SHIV, a simian-human immunodeficiency virus, in infected macaques.

The suppression effects lasted for up to one year in the animal models. SHIV is commonly used in research to model HIV infection in humans, providing insights into potential treatments. The vectors serve as delivery vehicles, enabling sustained drug presence without repeated dosing.

Leronlimab targets the CCR5 receptor, which HIV uses to enter cells, blocking this pathway to inhibit viral replication. In the study, the single administration via vectors achieved long-term expression, marking a step toward more efficient HIV therapies.

Macaques were chosen for their physiological similarities to humans in immune responses. The partial suppression indicates potential for reducing viral loads over extended periods, though complete eradication was not observed. Further research would be needed to assess efficacy in human trials and any side effects.

The findings build on existing knowledge of gene therapy applications in infectious diseases.