HIV Protein May Be Key to New Treatments

U.S. researchers said Friday they have successfully targeted an HIV protein that up to now has eluded existing therapies.

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine, targeted Nef, a protein responsible for accelerating the development of AIDS from HIV infection. They targeted Nef with small, synthesized molecules that disrupted its interaction with other proteins.

The method was successful, but the molecules identified proved toxic to cells, the researchers said, adding they now are seeking to develop less toxic compounds that will have high potencies against Nef without causing collateral damage.

A key benefit of the technique would be development of therapies using smaller molecules, which can often be used in oral medications. Therapies that rely on larger molecules generally must be used in medications injected by needle.