Studies About HIV Antibodies

An article from Biology News Net has brought to the attention of the public why there are antibodies in the body which fail to protect against the HIV infection. Researchers have been confused for years about why people who are infected with the AIDS virus produce antibodies in response to the infection, if those antibodies are ineffective in blocking the infection. Now, they think they may have found their answer.
Some of the earliest and most abundant antibodies that are available to try and fight the infection cannot actually “see” the virus until it has already invaded, and is too late. These scientists have done a series of biochemical and crystallography experiments which showed them what specific molecular structures different types of antibodies need in order for them to hold an effective defense. Now that it is known what kind of structure is needed, researchers have a better understanding of what an immune system needs to have an effective defense against HIV.
The subject of preventing and treating HIV/AIDS is one that is very important and urgent. These studies are a big milestone in the process of figuring out this disease. I think it is great that scientists are getting farther towards a way to help people who have been infected with this dangerous illness.