Study sheds light on potential drug target for HIV ANI | Updated: Feb 13, 2021 19:35 IST
Texas [US], February 13 (ANI): A team of researchers discovered that a human protein named SAMHD1 recognises a unique molecular pattern in nucleic acids. This pattern, called phosphorothioate , may act as a signal for action to the human body defense system and henceforth could be a step forward in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The study compares the process to a sentinel atop a palace wall who sees an invading horde in the distance and calls the troops to battle stations.
Humans possess a formidable multi-layered defense system that protects us against viral infections. A better understanding of these defenses and the tricks that viruses use to evade them could open novel avenues for treating viral infections and possibly other diseases.