Researchers have discovered a paradigm shift in HIV's RNA virus, allowing them to understand the disease better, and formulate drugs that target specific sites. Photo from Reuters Connect

Researchers have made an exciting advancement in understanding and treating HIV. The method they were able to identify was labeled as a "paradigm shift." The new findings by the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, published the outcomes of their study in Science. Their study focused on the virus's RNA, which held the virus's genetic information.

The study showed that the virus's genetic code could be read in two different ways from the cells the virus has infected. The researchers discovered that infected cells make two different compositions of the virus's RNA.

Joshua Brown, the lead author of the study, told UMBC News that the virus had to have a proper balance between the two forms of RNA as its functional distinction is essential for the virus to clone itself.

He says that for decades, scientists have known that two different structural forms of the HIV RNA exist. Researchers were just not sure about what controlled their balance. He adds that the findings of their study revealing a single nucleotide's huge effect is paramount in understanding how HIV operates.

HIV 101

The human immunodeficiency virus is a virus that attacks cells that help the body fight infection. It weakens a person's immune system, making them more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. It is acquired through contact with certain bodily fluids of a person with HIV, most commonly during unprotected sex or through sharing syringes used for drug administration.

If left untreated, HIV can lead to a person having Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Once a person develops HIV, that person will have it for the rest of his or her lifetime. The human body can't get rid of HIV, and no efficient HIV cure exists.

However, by taking antiretroviral therapy, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. They can also prevent the transmission of HIV to their sexual partners. In addition, pre-exposure prophylaxis and post-exposure prophylaxis are also effective methods to avoid contracting HIV.

The Implications of the Findings in Treatment of HIV

Brown says that with the findings of their study, drug companies could formulate a drug that would target the genetic code at that one specific spot, and shift it into only one form. Theoretically, it could prevent further infection, he adds.

The finding would help in making HIV drugs more efficient, as well as reducing treatment to just one single form of medication.

Aishwarya Iyer, another author of the study, says that coming up with such a drug might lead to fewer side effects experienced by patients. Iyer adds that it could offer more treatment options to people with various health conditions.

Hannah Carter, also an author of the study, says that every time a new drug for HIV gets developed, the study's findings rampantly improves the chances of individuals finding a drug that works for them, where resistance is a little less likely. She adds that it could have a causal sequence throughout the study of different viruses that could impact research into the novel coronavirus as well.