HIV-1 budding from cultured lymphocyte. Credit: CDC / C. Goldsmith, P. Feorino, E. L. Palmer, W. R. McManus

Scientists have genetically engineered immune cells to make them more effective at fighting HIV.

When a person is under attack from HIV, his or her immune system takes charge to fight the invader.

Specific cells called T-cells can detect infected cells and destroy them. The HIV virus however, can eventually overwhelm the immune system and potentially lead to the development of AIDS.

In this study, researchers were able to genetically modify specific T-cells enabling them to bind more tightly to the HIV infected cells, thereby reducing the spread of the virus.

For additional information, see:

• Immune Cells Genetically Engineered Into Potent Weapons For Battling HIV (Science Daily)