I was poking through some news tonight, and I came across a rather interesting article on the BBC's website. Basically, a vaccine has been developed using certain genes from the HIV virus (not dead virus bits, so I guess there's no chance of the test subjects becoming infected). The idea is that, once vaccinated, the body will recognize the genes and start producing some defense against them so the people will be resistant or immune to HIV. Have any of you guys heard more about this? Any opinions or thoughts? I'm pretty much operating under the assumption that HIV is a fairly strong virus, and I'm not sure if this vaccine will really work to get the immune system on the defensive... but it would be awesome if it did!

I'll include the link here so you can read the article for yourselves:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6342575.stm

Not knowing enough about viruses and their physiology I can't say if this would work or not. I do know that they've tested it out in other countries and no one has gotten infected through that vaccine. I also know that it uses genes from the B form of the virus and the one most prevalent in South Africa is the C form, but then again that article mentioned that.

I really want this to work, but I don't know enough about what's going on with its production to make an educated guess as to whether or not it will.

The problem with viruses is that they attack the immunity system. And they can't be fought like bacteria, because bacteria are cells while viruses are just proteins. It's much more difficult to get rid of something simple than to kill something more complex, because as a general rule, what is simple is usually more solid.

But if the vaccine were efficient, it would be awesome. Of course, it would have to be given for free, because the place where the HIV is the biggest threat is Central Africa. But never trust a government to do a selfless act...

For any non-charitable organization to do a selfless act is pretty startling.

Have to admit that seeing the prescription drug companies sponser special programs to supply medicines to those with little means to afford their products was heartening. Not sure of all the details, but know that more than one has set up programs to help get medications to those that need them the most while unable to get them. It's like they've realized the billions of dollars profit turned justifies helping out a few poor sufferers.

Sadly, no, don't see any kind of relief for many African peoples suffering from HIV/AIDS.

Guys- I found an article about a little breakthrough in HIV vaccine research that also explains a lot about the virus itself, and why it's so tough to kill. I'll include the link below.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6357287.stm