Curing HIV: Seeking to Target and Clear Persistent Infection.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection remains a chronic condition despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART).
• The persistence of HIV-1 necessitates the development of strategies aimed at complete viral eradication or cure.
• Significant stigma and burden are associated with lifelong HIV-1 management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review foundational studies and recent advancements in HIV cure research.
• To highlight novel therapeutic approaches for eradicating persistent HIV-1 infection.
• To discuss the potential impact of HIV cure strategies on the global HIV pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on HIV cure research, including latency-reversing agents and immunotherapies.
• Analysis of clinical trial progress and emerging insights in the field.
• Integration of findings with advances in ART delivery and HIV prevention.

Main Results:

• Current HIV cure research is in its early stages, with promising therapeutic avenues being explored.
• Combinations of ART with latency reversal and immunotherapy show potential for viral clearance.
• Advances in ART delivery and prevention are crucial complements to cure strategies.

Conclusions:

• Developing effective HIV cure strategies is a critical goal to alleviate the burden of the HIV pandemic.
• Future therapies hold the potential to eliminate the lifelong stigma and management associated with chronic HIV-1 infection.
• Continued research and clinical translation are essential for achieving a functional cure or eradication of HIV-1.