Black Man’s HIV Status Leads to Major Breakthrough in Research

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

According to scientists, HIV research is undergoing a "renaissance." Recent developments can lead to a plethora of new drugs to fight a disease that has come to cripple the black community. The most interesting part of it all is that much of the progress has come from the body of a black man.
The US government recently stated that its scientists have found three new antibodies to fight the disease, one of which can neutralize 91% of HIV strains. That's more than any antibody has produced thus far. The antibodies don't cure HIV, but they can be used in powerful new vaccines.
The HIV antibodies which led to the developments were found in the cells of a 60-year old black man. Scientists have not released his name, and only refer to him as "Donor 45." His body made the antibodies naturally, and scientists are using his results to create a vaccine that will produce the antibodies in anyone who takes it.

 

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