Two genes isolated that may protect against HIV

A new study has found two genes that may prevent people from contracting HIV or slow the progression of those infected with the virus to AIDS.

Scientists compared the genetic profiles of people newly infected with HIV with people who were known to be apparently resistant to contracting HIV, in spite of repeated exposure to the virus.

Particular versions of the two genes were present in 12.2% of those who resisted infection, compared with only 2.7% of those who had newly contracted HIV.

One of the genes codes for a receptor on the surface of the immune system's natural killer cells that destroy infected cells in the body. The other gene codes for a protein that binds the first gene and dampens the natural killer cell activity.