Biotech company
creates HIV-resistant immune cells

Richmond, Calif.-based biotechnology company Sangamo BioSciences reports having created genetically modified immune system cells that are resistant to HIV infection, The Oakland Tribune reports. Speaking at the 45th Annual Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy in Washington, D.C., Sangamo officials say they've developed immune cells containing a genetic mutation that prevents HIV from latching onto CCR5 receptors on the surface of the cells, a portal HIV must attach to in order to infect them.

Lab tests showed that the genetically engineered immune system cells were able to resist infection, even when exposed to high concentrations of HIV. The researchers hope to advance their findings to animal and human studies, with the goal of engineering an individual's immune system cells and reinserting them into the body, where they would replicate and build a defense against the virus. (Advocate.com)