Chimps and AIDS, now we have the source
While it might seem academic to learn where AIDS and HIV came from, the recent discovery of the origins of HIV does have profound implications.
HIV originated in chimpanzees in Cameroon, say scientists who analyzed ape feces in the wild to find the oldest simian version.
Until recently, it has been difficult for scientists to trace the chimpanzee version of the AIDS virus, called simian immunodeficiency virus, to animals in the wild.
Two implications here. First we now have our first clues of how, where, and when simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) came into contact with us and it’s natural prevalence. From the CBC article it appears that people butchering infected animals were the first vectors of SIV to people to become HIV. This isn’t too surprising. Now what is important is that with the understanding of the origins of HIV we can look back through the mutations and perhaps be able to find something that can be used as a new treatment, vaccine, or even a cure.
Let’s hope so.
1 Comment
Perfect pages… tnx