RNA Interference Suppresses HIV Infection in “Humanized” Mice

RNA interference rendered mice with reconstituted human immune systems resistant to HIV infection.

The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) has revolutionized biological research and offers promise as an entirely new type of therapy (JW Dec 31 2003). Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) can target and disable specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs), such as those made by viruses or by virus-infected cells.

An international team created siRNAs that targeted mRNAs for CCR5 (the co-receptor that is an essential mediator of HIV entry into T cells) and two other essential viral proteins. They attached these siRNAs to a monoclonal antibody directed against CD7 (a T-cell marker) and to a molecule that penetrates the cell membrane; the composite molecules were injected intravenously into mice that had been engineered to have human immune systems. The compound…

Reviewing Author

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardSerImmune Inc.; DxTerity

Grant / Research SupportNIH (1U54NS105542-01)

Editorial BoardsHarvard Health Letter; UpToDate

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardSerImmune Inc.; DxTerity

Grant / Research SupportNIH (1U54NS105542-01)

Editorial BoardsHarvard Health Letter; UpToDate