An injectable HIV drug with a novel mechanism has been named Breakthrough of the Year by the influential U.S. journal Science. The drug, called lenacapavir, offers protection against HIV for six months with each shot, marking a significant advancement in HIV prevention.
Unlike traditional HIV medications that target viral enzymes, lenacapavir works differently. It interacts with the capsid proteins that form a protective shell around the viral RNA, disrupting the structure and function of HIV’s capsid protein. This unique approach prevents the virus from replicating effectively.
Researchers are hopeful that lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, will dramatically reduce global HIV infection rates when used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In a large efficacy trial reported in June, adolescent girls and young women in Africa who received lenacapavir shots had zero HIV infections, demonstrating 100% efficacy.
The widespread adoption of lenacapavir as PrEP could be a game-changer in the fight against HIV/AIDS, especially in regions heavily impacted by the epidemic. However, its success will depend on factors like access, delivery, and demand. Regulatory approval is anticipated by mid-2025 at the earliest.
Lenacapavir’s recognition by Science highlights the ongoing efforts and innovations in medical science aimed at combating HIV/AIDS. With continued research and global cooperation, breakthroughs like this offer hope for a future where HIV is no longer a global health threat.
Other notable breakthroughs named by Science include advances in autoimmune disease treatment, cosmic discoveries by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, the first RNA-based pesticide entering the field, and insights into ancient DNA revealing family ties.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
