U.S. scientists said a genetic material called microRNA might play a role in aiding the human immunodeficiency virus evade detection.

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University Medical Center said microRNA, or miRNA, better known for its roles in cancer, could be a key to unlocking the secrets of how HIV -- the AIDS virus -- hides in the immune system.

The researchers discovered when an individual infected with HIV receives a powerful cocktail of antiviral agents called HAART -- Highly Active AntiretRoviral Therapy -- the virus calls on miRNAs to help it remain quiet and practically undetectable, temporarily shutting down its ability to replicate and infect.

The work led by Dr, Hui Zhang, an associate professor of medicine, appears in the early online edition of the journal Nature Medicine. 
 // Copyright 2007 by United Press International


Publication date: 01 October 2007   

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