Test For Immunity to Infection By Hiv Posted: 08-25-06 08:56am
Hello
i found this article on testing your genes
to see if you are one of the lucky ones to
be more resistant than the general
population from infection by the virus
that causes aids. Can anyone tell me any
more information about this?
Thank you
tessa
press release 22nd august 2006
test for hiv immunity released.
It seems some humans are resistant to
infection by hiv – and it’s in their
genes. Delta32 gene testing labs has
just announced the release of a
commercially available test for the ccr5
delta 32 gene mutation
(www.Delta32.Com.Au). This gene confers
resistance to infection by hiv in humans.
Around 10-20% of the caucasian general
population and lower percentages of other
groups have 1 copy of this gene.
Research studies have shown that whilst
one copy of the gene does not provide a
barrier to infection, it can slow the
progression of latent hiv infection to
aids. Conversely, 2 copies can render an
individual highly resistant to infection
by the majority of strains of hiv.
Although only 1-3% of the caucasion
general population have 2 copies of the
delta32 gene mutation, as high as 20-30%
of groups at high risk of hiv infection
have 2 copies. Very few individuals with
2 copies of the gene have ever been
recorded as being infected by the virus.
Whilst other human genes can yield
resistance to hiv, the delta32 gene
mutation is one of the better
characterised examples. Delta32 gene
labs is offering the test to consumers for
us$160. Dna samples are taken by the
customers via a cheek swab and sent
through the mail. The company states
that it provides the service for the
information of customers only, it is not
considered as a diagnostic. Irrespective
of the genetic status of individuals, the
company strongly encourages the use of
safe sex practices. Any decisions taken
as a result of the test should be dicussed
with a physician or genetic counsellor
beforehand.
