### Breakthrough in HIV Cure: First Patient Healed Through Stem Cell Transplant Without Mutation
An unprecedented study by the international consortium IciStem, co-coordinated by Spain’s IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, has reported the first known case of an individual cured of HIV following a stem cell transplant from a donor lacking the protective CCR5Δ32 mutation. Published on September 3, 2024, in *Nature Medicine*, this landmark achievement marks a significant advance in the fight against HIV.
The patient, referred to as the “Geneva patient,” is the sixth person to experience HIV remission through stem cell transplantation. However, unlike previous cases, this patient received cells from a donor without the CCR5Δ32 mutation, which is known to provide natural resistance to HIV. Researchers indicate that while the CCR5Δ32 mutation can facilitate healing, it is not an absolute requirement for achieving a cure.
**Understanding the Mechanisms of HIV Remission**
ICREA research professor Javier Martínez-Picado, the IciStem coordinator, emphasized the importance of identifying the potential mechanisms that contributed to the Geneva patient’s remission. The findings suggest that HIV remission is achievable even without the CCR5Δ32 mutation.
Diagnosed with HIV in May 1990, the Geneva patient began antiretroviral therapy immediately. In January 2018, after being diagnosed with myeloid sarcoma, he underwent a stem cell transplant using cells from a compatible donor in July 2018. Within a month, tests showed a complete replacement of the patient’s blood cells with those from the donor, significantly reducing HIV levels.
Despite optimal antiretroviral treatment prior to the transplant, the patient still had replicable virus. Post-transplant assessments revealed a drastic reduction in HIV-related markers: no detectable virus particles, an undetectable HIV reservoir, and no immune response indicating viral presence.
### The Role of Ruxolitinib and Natural Killer (NK) Cells
The Geneva patient’s prolonged remission led researchers to test the immunosuppressive drug Ruxolitinib, which has shown promise in blocking HIV replication and preventing viral reactivation in laboratory studies. This medication is thought to have been a contributing factor to the patient’s cure.
Additionally, the researchers highlighted the critical role of Natural Killer (NK) cells, which patrol the body, targeting and eliminating infected cells while maintaining immune vigilance. The Geneva case, conducted under the IciStem consortium and supported by institutions including the University Hospital of Geneva and the Pasteur Institute, opens new pathways for HIV eradication research.
**Secondary Article: Expanding the Horizons of HIV Research**
### Healed HIV Cases: New Insights Following Geneva Patient’s Treatment
Following the groundbreaking success of the Geneva patient, further research and trials are ramping up globally to explore new avenues in HIV treatment and potential cures. Medical communities are particularly intrigued by the possibility of achieving remission without relying on the CCR5Δ32 mutation, thus broadening the scope of potential donor matches for future transplants.
Recent studies highlight advancements in gene-editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, aimed at modifying patient cells to resist HIV infection. Researchers are also investigating drugs that mimic the effects of protective mutations or bolster the body’s natural immune defenses.
In parallel, multiple ongoing clinical trials focus on enhancing the efficacy and safety of stem cell transplants. The insights gained from the Geneva patient are pivotal in optimizing these procedures, ensuring better outcomes and minimizing complications.
Researchers worldwide are encouraged by these developments and remain committed to the ultimate goal of eradicating HIV, offering hope to millions affected by the virus.
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