HIV: Genetic mutation leads to two men being ‘spontaneously cured’ of virus

The genetic mechanism that allowed two men to be “spontaneously cured” of HIV has been discovered by scientists. The researchers, from France’s Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm), said the two patients they studied were not unique and the phenomenon of being cured of HIV is the result of an evolutionary shift between some humans and the virus. According to AFP, both men were infected with HIV but never developed Aids symptoms because the virus’ genetic code had been altered. They believe this alteration was a result of increased activity of the enzyme APOBEC. In both cases, the virus was unable to replicate in immune cells because of the mutations. Published in the journal Clinical Microbiology and Infection, the researchers note that about 1% of people infected with HIV are naturally able to keep the virus at clinically undetectable levels. Known as “elite controllers”, the mechanisms of how this group of people rein in...