In a recently published study in Blood , a strong evidence has been found of HIV cure in a patient who received CCR5 Delta 32/Delta32 stem cells.
This has raised hopes for constructing a permanent cure for HIV through genetically-engineered stem cells.
HIV entry into CD4+ cells requires interaction with a cellular receptor, generally either CCR5 or CXCR4.
Previously, the authors had reported a case of an HIV-infected patient in whom viral replication remained absent despite discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy after transplantation with CCR5{Delta}32/{Delta}32 stem cells.
In the present study, authors have demonstrate successful reconstitution of CD4+ T cells at the systemic level as well as in the gut mucosal immune system following CCR5Delta32/Delta32 stem cell transplantation, while the patient remained asymptomatic.
The results strongly suggest that cure of HIV has been achieved in this patient.
Blood: DOI 10.1182/blood-2010-09-309591.