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Key HIV weakness could pave way for a cure | Scientists now know how HIV integrates into the human genome


A groundbreaking discovery reveals how HIV integrates its genetic material into human DNA, exposing a key viral vulnerability that could lead to new therapies and bring the world closer to a functional HIV cure.

“Until now, it has not been entirely clear how HIV-1 integrase selects its integration targets in the genome,” said the study’s corresponding author, Marina Lusic, PhD, a group leader in DZIF’s Department of Infectious Diseases. By way of explanation, HIV carries an enzyme called integrase, which is kind of like a molecular “stapler.” Once the virus enters a human cell, it makes a copy of its genetic material in the form of DNA. In many regions, the continuous provision of antiretroviral therapies is not guaranteed – with the result that interruptions significantly increase the risk of treatment failure and the spread of resistant virus variants.”

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