DNA Protein Found
That Bolsters Weak Immune System

A protein found in some people's DNA can shield them from viral attacks such as HIV, a North American research team has discovered.

''Our group has found how the key protein, FOX03a, is vital to the survival of central memory cells that are defective in HIV-infected individuals even if they are treated,'' lead researcher Rafick-Pierre Sekaly said in a press release.

The breakthrough emerged after studying three groups of men: one HIV-negative sample, a second HIV-positive group whose infection was successfully controlled through tritherapy, and a third group whose HIV did not show any symptoms. Members of the third group avoided infection without treatment because their immune systems, which would normally be attacked by HIV, stayed resilient through the regulation of the FOX03a protein.

''Given their perfect resistance to HIV infection, elite controllers represent the ideal study group to examine how proteins are responsible for the maintenance of an immune system with good antiviral memory,'' said research team member Elias El Haddad in the press release. ''This is the first study to examine in people rather than animals what shields the body's immune system from infection and to pinpoint the fundamental role of FOX03a in defending the body.''

Public support for the research came through Genome Canada and Genome Quebec as well as other public funds and private contributions. (The Advocate)