HIV VACCINE: A CLOUD WITH SILVER LINING

Abstract

Dear madam, The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) targets the immune system by impairing the function of CD4+ cells that weakens an individual’s defense against opportunistic infections. These include infections like tuberculosis and cryptococcal meningitis and make the individual prone to some types of cancers such as lymphomas and Kaposi's sarcoma. It has claimed 36.3 million lives and a further 37.7 million remain infected as of 2020. HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex and sharing needles that contain bodily fluids. (1)

Even though Pakistan has a low HIV trouble — around 0.1 percent of the grown-up populace -, the issue is as yet disturbing for Pakistan as it is confronting a concentrated scourge among infusing drug clients (IDUs) with a HIV commonness of 21% among IDUs in major metropolitan habitats. Sex Workers likewise add to this plague as condom use is still low during business sex experiences, unscreened blood transfusions in small-scale hospitals, broad use and reuse of needles without sterilization, all add to expanding the number of HIV patients in Pakistan. (2)

 To date, the most effective treatment recommended for HIV has been a combination of three or more Antiretroviral therapies (ART). However, these drugs are accompanied by a series of side effects such as nausea, heart disease, kidney and liver damage, and cognitive and emotional problems among others. These side effects can cause the HIV-infected individual to delay, decline or discontinue ART.(3)

 With mRNA vaccines now being the talk of the town, due to their wonders against SARS-COV-2, Moderna has started clinical trials for an mRNA HIV vaccine, with phase 1 trials being planned to take place in Seattle, Atlanta, and San Antonio. (4) N.I.A.I.D has also introduced a primary phase trial assessing three preliminary vaccines:1)BG505 MD39.3 mRNA, 2) BG505 MD39.3 gp151 mRNA, and 3) BG505 MD39.3 gp151 CD4KO mRNA, based on mRNA technology. These vaccines work by presenting a spike protein present on the exterior of the HIV. This allows entry into host cells.The trial is anticipated to conclude by July 2023, during  which blood and lymph node fine needle aspiration specimens will be withdrawn to examine the immune responses.(5)

Presently, human trials are underway in discovering a suitable vaccine and whether we will be able to find one remains skeptical. A safe and effective vaccine will be a huge relief for a developing country like Pakistan which continues to face an HIV epidemic due to a lack of literacy, awareness, poverty, and minimal use of contraceptives. Till then, the epidemic should be tackled by developing awareness through social media platforms, public service messages by doctors, and by educating the community about HIV.