Kathmandu. New mRNA nanoparticle technology could be used to activate the hidden HIV virus in the body, scientists say is a “game changer”.
Main challenge in HIV treatment
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While efforts have been made for decades to completely control HIV, one of the main challenges is the “hidden virus”. The virus hides inside the body’s white blood cells (CD4 plus T cells) and remains dormant. Which cannot be detected by medicine or the body’s immune system. For this reason, a person infected with HIV has to take medication for the rest of his life. Because the virus is not completely destroyed.
{{TAG_OPEN_strong_42}New discovery: mRNA nanoparticle ‘LNP X’
In 2025, researchers at Harvard Medical School have developed an advanced mRNA-lipid nanoparticle system called LNPX. While the technology is similar to that used in the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, it has been modified specifically to directly reach the CD4-plus cells that hide HIV.
The mRNA in this nanoparticle makes a protein inside the cell that “activates” the SOV virus. Due to which the virus which was previously invisible can now be detected. Previous attempts failed because white blood cells couldn’t take up nanoparticles. But LNP-X has solved this problem by increasing its ability to cross the cell membrane.
Laboratory results: Night and day different
Tests on white blood cells taken from HIV-infected people showed a significant increase in viral RNA levels after LNP-X treatment. Scientists call it a “night and day difference”. Which means that the hidden viruses have been able to be clearly identified.
This technology has now made the ‘shock and kill’ strategy practically possible. Where the virus is first ‘awakened’ and then destroyed by the drug or the body’s immune system.
Future Prospects and Challenges
This technology does not yet ensure a complete cure for HIV. However, this is a very important step towards ending HIV. In the next phase, this technology will be taken to human trials. It will evaluate its safety, efficacy and long-term impact.
Main Challenges
- mRNA expression control,
- to ensure that the body does not have an excessive immune response,
- Ensuring mass production and safe delivery.
If successful, the LNP-X technology could be useful not only in HIV but also in other hidden viral diseases (such as hepatitis or tuberculosis).
Conclusion: New Mode of Science
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Scientists consider this discovery to be a turning point in HIV treatment. The ability to see hidden viruses now opens up a new avenue for researchers to get to the real end of HIV. Just as the COVID-19 vaccine gave worldwide acceptance of mRNA technology, LNPX is expected to usher in a new era of HIV treatment.
