Key protein that fights HIV found

New research has made pioneering discoveries into how some people's DNA guards them against killer immune diseases such as HIV.

Canadian scientists have revealed in an advance online edition of Nature Medicine how the protein, FOX03a, shields against viral attacks. They also include the possible implications for the development of a HIV vaccine.

"HIV infection is characterised by the slow demise of T-cells, in particular central memory cells, which can mediate lifelong protection against viruses," said lead researcher Rafick-Pierre Sekaly.

"Our group has found how the key protein, FOX03a, is vital to the survival of central memory cells that are defective in HIV-infected individuals even if they are treated."

Scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases recently identified a protein which guides immune cells to the gut and is a target of the HIV virus.

"The identification of this new receptor opens up new avenues of investigation that may help further elucidate the complex mechanisms of the pathogenesis of HIV infection," said NIAID director Anthony S Fauci at the time.

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