Another CRISPR ...

 

This article is a bit wordy, but worth it.  It's about reasearch using a dual CRISPR approach to cure humanized mice of HIV.   Some points;  this is research, CRISPR is gene editing, humanized mice carry human genes, cells or tissues.  

While on a long acting HIV medication, this dual approach would directly attack & remove HIV from infected cells.  Then it would inactivate the CCR5 mutations in these cells.  This similar to what happens to humans who have been cured via transplant.

This is still in the research phase & these are mice, even if humanized.  Even if this does work, they will have to ensure to impact every aspect in the body.  If not, the dormant HIV would eventually return.

This may sound like the rantings of a mad scientist in a horror movie, but the science is grounded.  Despite the mixed species aprroach, this may lead to a possible cure not involving some one getting a bone marrow transplant to treat leukemia. 

Something to keep an eye on.  Take cae.

Cya...

Mice...

Over the past couple of days, there's been talk of scientists removing HIV entirely from infected mice.  This article (1 of many) somewhat details the undertaking.  OK, great, but... 

The fact they could remove the virus is fascinating.  The technology is amazing.  However, (drum roll)  these are MICE.  Albeit mammals, they aren't humans, not even primates.  Even if this does work in mice, it may never work for humans.  Say it does, that could be years or even decades away.

I'm hate to be a downer, but you need to have perspective.  Even once an approach is in human trials it can take a decade or even fail.  There are few guarantees in research.  But, this knowledge does add to it all.  It does put us a step closer.  That alone is worth recognition.  While this is amazing work, a cure is still not in the near future.

Cya...

Rehash...

The weather is a repeat of yesterday's & tomorrow looks to be the same.   I had a really hard time waking up this morning.  My head aches & I'm slightly feverish.  The back of my right foot is pretty sore & stiff.  Walking isn't fun at the moment.   Unfortunately, it's the only thing that will loosen my foot up some.  It's not that cold, but I feel like it's freezing.  The drizzling, grey skies have blocked out most of the sunlight. 

I hate this weather. I am not a happy camper.  Fall genuinely sucks.  

Speaking of Autumn things, we had our 1st mouse of the season.  I'd known had been around. I'd heard it & we had to change trash cans.  The old can for some reason had holes in the bottom.  The little vermin was getting in & chewing on the trash bags.  1 of them came to an end last night.   He was tossed out this morning & the trap reset.

No sunlight, foul weather, mice, chill, etc... That's Fall for you.

Cya...