'Reawakening old genes' fights AIDS

Reawakening a dormant gene in humans could be pivotal in stopping the transmission of HIV, scientists have found.

A new vaginal cream is being developed by experts at the University of Central Florida in Orlando that coaxes the gene to produce retrocyclin, a protein that can resist HIV.

The sleeping protein is triggered by using drugs often used against bacterial infections, namely aminoglycosides.

Alexander Cole, the lead scientist, said that the breakthrough "could make a huge difference in the fight against HIV".

"Much more work would be needed to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of this approach. We would certainly have to have human trials, but these findings represent a promising step in that direction," he stated.

MR Cole, who is working with scientists at UCLA and the Centres for Disease Control, claimed that there is a "good possibility" of the cream being used to prevent HIV in the future.

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